Prepared by Sara Pineda Jaramillo
Purpose of the Decree
Decree 972 of 2025 (hereinafter, the “Decree”) aims to promote the self-generation of solar energy in households belonging to strata 1, 2, and 3, in order to advance sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Colombia. This regulatory framework is directed at users of the National Interconnected System (SIN) and the Non-Interconnected Zones (ZNI), ensuring that these households can access the benefits of the program.
How the Objective Will Be Achieved
- Leadership of the Ministry of Mines and Energy: It will coordinate, lead, regulate, define guidelines, issue, and manage the implementation of the program.
- Regulatory adjustments: Specific provisions are incorporated into Decree 1073 of 2015 to regulate solar self-generation.
- Creation of the Program: The Colombia Solar Program is established as a public policy to manage and promote solar projects nationwide.
- Technical regulation by CREG: Within three months, it must harmonize regulations and establish technical aspects such as measurement and billing for the program’s proper operation.
- Program supervision: The Superintendence of Public Services will conduct inspection, monitoring, and control of the program.
- Gradual replacement of subsidies: Self-generation is proposed as an alternative to the traditional electricity subsidy scheme.
Scope of the Colombia Solar Program
- Promote self-supply: Households in strata 1, 2, and 3 will be encouraged to generate their own electricity through solar panels.
- Guarantee basic subsistence consumption: Ensure that the minimum energy demand is met through solar sources in the SIN and ZNI.
- Reduce costs for vulnerable households: Generate direct savings in electricity expenses for low-income families.
- Optimize public resources: Improve the efficiency of the Solidarity Fund for Subsidies and Income Redistribution (FSSRI), reducing pressure on electricity subsidies.
Expected Impact on Industry and the Country
- Environmental: Contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the sustainability of the energy system.
- Energy: Enable the consolidation of a cleaner and more efficient energy matrix, less dependent on fossil fuels.
- Economic: Provide savings for low-income users and open new business opportunities for investors.
- Industrial: Promote the development of solar projects and strengthen the renewable energy industry in Colombia.
Financing Sources
- Public resources: Financing will be available from the General Budget of the Nation, subject to availability.
- Specialized funds: Funds such as FENOGE and FONDES will support the implementation of solar projects.
- International and private support: Participation is expected from multilateral banks, international cooperation agencies, and private investors.
Conclusion
The Decree establishes a clear framework for Colombia’s energy transition, ensuring access to basic electricity for vulnerable households, reducing dependency on subsidies, and promoting the use of cleaner, fairer, more sustainable, and longer-lasting energy sources. The Decree shall take effect on September 16, 2025, the day following its publication in the Official Gazette.