Argentina"s energy system is undergoing a transition marked by the expansion of renewable energy, the development of natural gas from Vaca Muerta, and the need for new storage and transmission solutions.
This process is reshaping the electricity market and increasing competition between technologies.
During the Future Energy Summit Argentina, Esteban Kieper, energy consultant at the Latin American and Caribbean Energy Organisation (OLACDE), stated that the country is experiencing a structural shift in resource availability.
"We have moved from an energy system with strong constraints and scarcity to one of energy abundance, he said.
The new scenario combines solar PV and wind power with growing gas production, paving the way for a more competitive market.
At the same time, the government is advancing reforms to reorganise the wholesale electricity market and attract investment in renewables, reflected in recent regulations published by CAMMESA.
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Argentina still lags behind regional peers in renewable penetration, although growth has been significant.
"Chile leads with more than 40% renewable generation, Brazil with 25% (or 33% including biomass), and Argentina stands at around 19%, Kieper noted.
In Latin America, the expansion of clean energy has been driven by environmental goals and energy security needs.
In Argentina, renewable growth coincided with high dependence on imported fuels.
"Renewables displaced costly and imported fuels, easing fiscal pressure, Kieper explained.
Today, renewables and large hydropower already supply more than 40% of electricity demand, reflecting a more diversified energy mix.
Energy storage is also gaining relevance, with different roles across the region.
In Argentina, it is mainly linked to peak demand and grid congestion.
"Batteries are helping solve transmission constraints and manage peaks, he said.
The government has launched the AlmaSADI tender for 700 MW of BESS, aimed at strengthening critical nodes and improving reliability, with the option to increase capacity by up to 10%.
Meanwhile, progress on the AMBA I transmission project could unlock up to 1,000 MW of additional capacity and enable new generation projects.
Looking ahead, Argentina"s resource abundance could support a more dynamic and competitive market, provided it successfully integrates renewables, storage and natural gas.
Por Energía Estratégica
Por Emilia Lardizabal
Por Ailén Pedrotti
