The partnership commenced with an assessment of Electropalmor pilot project
The partnership kicked off earlier this month with an evaluation of Electropalmor’s small-scale hydropower initiative, supported by HSA’s technical expertise. The three organizations are focused on applying the HSS across CEERA-affiliated companies to ensure responsible energy development. This initial project aims to serve as a model for community-driven energy initiatives, showcasing the effective application of international standards.
Looking ahead, the collaboration seeks to secure funding to replicate this approach in other community-based hydropower projects in Colombia and beyond. Additionally, the partners plan to provide training and capacity-building programs to empower local stakeholders in developing sustainable energy solutions. These efforts align with Colombia’s energy transition goals, as the country currently operates 143 small hydropower plants and has over 100 more under development.
Joao Costa, Executive Director of HSA, stated: “The Hydropower Sustainability Standard is a key tool to ensure that hydropower projects are responsible to the environment and communities. We are excited to collaborate with CEERA and Electropalmor in promoting sustainable practices in Colombia.”
Ángela María Sarmiento, Executive Director of CEERA, said: “This alliance reinforces our commitment to an energy model based on sustainability and the well-being of communities. Working with HSA and Electropalmor will allow us to advance in the adoption of international standards and in the strengthening of local capacities.”
Sol Viviana Zapata Alfonso, Executive Director of Electropalmor, noted: “As an energy community, our goal is to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy supply. With this alliance, we advance in the certification of our project and in the generation of knowledge for other similar developments.”
HSA is also engaging with Colombian authorities to promote the HSS framework. The organization has previously supported assessments of the 2,400 MW Ituango and 19.9 MW Chorreritas projects, both of which achieved Silver certification. This partnership underscores the importance of environmentally and socially responsible hydropower for community development and sustainable energy progress in Colombia.
