EPM faces three major challenges this year: the El Niño phenomenon, gas supply issues, and the development of Afinia. These hurdles come against the backdrop of rising operational costs and regulatory pressures. In 2025, EPM generated consolidated revenues of 40.6 billion pesos, with net profit increasing by 9% to reach 5.3 billion pesos. Only EPM recorded revenue of 20 billion pesos and a profit of 4.9 billion pesos. Nearly half of the company’s profits came from energy generation, driven by hydroelectric and thermal operations, while distribution accounted for 27%, and services such as water supply and waste management contributed 15%. The primary challenge facing EPM this year is the anticipated El Niño event, which could range from strong to very strong. This climate phenomenon is expected to bring reduced rainfall, leading to lower contributions to reservoirs. According to John Maya, EPM's manager, the situation is compounded by increased demand and stable generation levels, creating an energy deficit. He emphasized the importance of managing reservoirs to avoid power rationing during the El Niño period, which is likely to occur in December 2026 and January 2027. Thermal generation will play a key role in supporting hydropower so that reservoirs are not depleted too quickly. Maya acknowledged the risk of a blackout but did not make definitive statements, instead highlighting the precarious balance between supply and demand. He noted that the country has not received new projects as promised and that only 20% of expected investments have been realized, contributing to an energy firm deficit of 2.2%. The largest project currently underway is the second phase of Hidroituango, which adds 1,200 megawatts of capacity. While the first stage of Hidroituango is operating well, the second phase is nearly complete, with two units expected to start up in 2027 and others following in 2028. When fully operational, Hidroituango will provide 17% of the national energy supply, covering approximately 70 to 75 gigawatts of the current average consumption of 220 gigawatts. Despite these efforts, the government has faced criticism for its lack of coordinated action against El Niño. Although the National Council for Risk Management declared a natural disaster due to the phenomenon, Colombia has not yet developed a unified strategy. In contrast, neighboring countries such as Honduras and Costa Rica have implemented proactive measures, including early planning, emergency funds, and integrated strategies involving local governments, farmers, and businesses. Colombia, however, lacks a centralized framework to coordinate these initiatives effectively. Despite having tools like the FAO’s anticipatory actions, the Cruz Roja Colombiana, and the Banco Agrario’s programs, each operates independently without integration into a national system. The government, led by President Gustavo Petro, has responded by reallocating 4 billion pesos from the national budget to address the impacts of El Niño. This move aims to strengthen the state’s ability to respond to high temperatures, decreased rainfall, and potential disruptions in water and energy supplies. Petro stressed the need to prioritize protecting citizens from the effects of climate change, attributing the current environmental degradation to an economic model reliant on fossil fuels. He emphasized the importance of redirecting funds to areas of urgent need rather than future commitments. The reallocated resources will go to the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) to bolster preventive and response actions related to El Niño. Additionally, Petro announced plans to accelerate the installation of solar panels, arguing that the expected sunny conditions will favor solar energy production. He ruled out increasing reliance on gas, stating that the solution lies in expanding renewable energy infrastructure. With these steps, the government hopes to reinforce institutional preparedness and reduce risks to energy supply and public health. As the El Niño season progresses, the effectiveness of these measures will depend on both immediate implementation and long-term investment in sustainable energy solutions.
15 reports
SemanaIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 755 days agoDuring an extraordinary session of the National Council for Disaster Risk Management, Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced a revision of the National Budget to allocate 4 billion pesos toward addressing the impacts of El Niño. The funds will support climate resilience efforts, including water and energy supply stability during high temperatures and reduced rainfall. Petro emphasized the need to prioritize urgent needs over future commitments, redirecting resources from unallocated Ministry of Finance projects. International financial institution support, specifically 63 million dollars from the IDB, will aid in project structuring and strengthening state capacity. The move aims to bolster national energy systems, particularly hydroelectric generation, while promoting solar energy expansion due to favorable climatic conditions.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the budget reallocation as a progressive environmental initiative, emphasizing climate change mitigation and renewable energy expansion. It highlights the president’s focus on reducing fossil fuel dependence and prioritizing solar infrastructure, which aligns with leftist economic
Why factuality (85): The article accurately describes the declaration of a natural disaster by the Council of National Risk Management and compares Colombia’s response to Central American countries. It cites specific figures and timelines that match the primary source, including the date of the declaration and the lack
Why objectivity (75): The article has a critical tone towards Colombia’s preparedness compared to neighboring countries, which introduces a subtle comparative bias. While informative, it frames the issue through a regional comparison rather than presenting an entirely neutral perspective.
SemanaIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 709 days ago The three major challenges facing EPM: the El Niño phenomenon, gas supply and the development of AfiniaThe article discusses the challenges faced by Empresas Públicas de Medellín (EPM), a major Colombian utility company, in 2025. It highlights three main issues: the potential impact of El Niño on the national power grid, the supply of natural gas, and the development of Afinia. The article notes that EPM reported consolidated revenues of 40.6 billion pesos and a net profit increase of 9% to 5.3 billion pesos. A significant portion of this profit came from energy generation, which was driven by hydroelectric and thermal operations. The article emphasizes the threat posed by El Niño, which could lead to reduced water levels in reservoirs and increased energy demand, potentially causing shortages. John Maya, EPM’s manager, explains the importance of managing reservoirs and the role of thermal generation in supporting hydroelectric production. He also calls for more generation capacity and rational consumption.
Bias read (Center): The article presents information about EPM's financial performance and operational challenges without overtly favoring any political ideology. While it discusses the economic implications of El Niño and the need for new infrastructure projects, it does not take a clear stance on political policies,黨
Why factuality (80): This article aligns closely with the primary source regarding the allocation of funds for El Niño mitigation, mentioning the $4 billion reallocation from the budget. It references the Council of National Risk Management session and the President’s announcement, which matches the timeline and content
Why objectivity (70): While the article presents information about the government’s response, it includes some political commentary, such as linking climate change impacts to economic models. This adds a slight subjective frame but does not significantly bias the overall report.
La Silla VacíaIndependentProgressiveFactual 75Objective 604 days agoThe Colombian government, under President Gustavo Petro, declared a natural disaster due to the early arrival of the El Niño phenomenon, which has impacted the Andean, Pacific, and Caribbean regions. The decision was made during an extraordinary session of the National Risk Management Council and involved allocating $4 billion to the National Unit for Risk Management (Ungrd) to address the crisis. The move is based on Law 1523 of 2012, allowing for emergency responses to imminent threats. Officials emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that temperatures have reached historical highs comparable to past El Niño events. The article highlights concerns over potential power outages and the broader implications of climate change, while also mentioning preparations for the new director of Ungrd.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the government's actions as proactive and necessary, emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate-related risks. It highlights the allocation of significant funds to mitigate impacts and underscores the government’s commitment to environmental preparedness. While it presents data
Why factuality (75): The article reports that the government declared a natural disaster due to El Niño three months earlier than expected, citing a $4 billion allocation to UNGRD. However, this conflicts with the primary source document which states the official declaration was made by the Ministry of Environment in No
Why objectivity (60): The tone is more alarmist, emphasizing the severity of the situation and the urgency of action. It uses phrases like 'golpeado con fuerza' and highlights political actions, which introduces a level of editorializing beyond objective reporting.
La Silla VacíaIndependentProgressiveFactual 60Objective 505 days ago Detector to Petro's last speech to the 2026 CongressOn July 20, President Gustavo Petro delivered his final speech as president at Congress, highlighting economic and social achievements during his tenure. He presented data showing a historic decline in monetary poverty, reduced child mortality rates, increased minimum wages, and lower inflation compared to previous administrations. However, the 'Detector de Mentiras' fact-checking initiative reviewed these claims and found some misleading elements. While the reduction in poverty was historically significant, it was not solely attributable to Petro’s administration. The decrease in child mortality was linked to broader health prevention models rather than specific policies under his leadership. Although the minimum wage increase was the highest in the century, inflation remained low and did not exceed levels seen under former President Duque. The report concluded that while some claims were accurate, others were misleading or misrepresented statistical trends.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames President Petro's speech through a critical lens, emphasizing potential misrepresentations in his claims about poverty reduction and economic performance. While it acknowledges some factual accuracy, it highlights discrepancies and contextual factors that challenge the narrative.
Why factuality (60): The article summarizes key moments from Petro’s last speech, including his claim about opposition deaths, which is controversial. While it references the date of August 7, it does not directly relate to the primary source document about Sarabia’s resignation. It is partially relevant but not fully a
Why objectivity (50): The article presents the content of Petro’s speech without clear bias, though it includes contentious statements. It maintains a neutral tone overall, focusing on reporting rather than taking sides.
El EspectadorIndependentProgressiveFactual 40Objective 304 days agoThe article titled 'Estos son los últimos proyectos que intenta pasar el gobierno Petro antes de irse' by El Espectador discusses the final legislative initiatives that President Gustavo Petro's administration aims to pass before he leaves office. The focus is on the remaining projects that could shape Colombia's policies during his tenure. The piece highlights the urgency and significance of these proposals, which may include social reforms, economic measures, and environmental protections. While the article provides an overview of the proposed legislation, it does not delve into specific details or outcomes. It serves as a summary of the current political agenda under Petro’s leadership.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the government's efforts to pass legislation as significant and urgent, aligning with progressive priorities such as social reform and environmental protection. The emphasis on the 'last projects' suggests a narrative that underscores the importance of these initiatives in shaping
Why factuality (40): This article discusses a legal case against Juliana Guerrero, unrelated to Laura Sarabia’s resignation. It provides no information about the primary source document and thus cannot be assessed for factual accuracy in this context.
Why objectivity (30): The article is focused on a separate legal issue and does not address the main event. While it doesn’t show strong bias, it is irrelevant to the subject matter and therefore lacks objectivity in relation to the primary source.
El EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 40Objective 305 days ago These were the key moments of Gustavo Petro's last speech as presidentThe article summarizes the key moments from Gustavo Petro's final speech as president of Colombia. It highlights the main points he addressed during his farewell address, likely covering his administration's achievements, challenges faced, and future aspirations for the country. The piece provides an overview of the significant topics discussed by Petro, offering insight into his legacy and vision for Colombia moving forward.
Bias read (Center): The article appears to provide a neutral summary of the key moments from Petro's speech without overtly favoring any particular political stance. It focuses on summarizing the content of the speech rather than presenting a biased interpretation or critique.
Why factuality (40): This article is about a different legal case involving a judge and congressional salaries, unrelated to Laura Sarabia’s resignation. It contains no relevant information about the primary source document and thus cannot be evaluated for factual accuracy in this context.
Why objectivity (30): The article is focused on a legal dispute and does not address the main event. While it doesn’t show strong bias, it is irrelevant to the subject matter and therefore lacks objectivity in relation to the primary source.
SemanaIndependentProgressiveFactual 40Objective 305 days ago Maria Claudia Tarazona lashes out at Petro for a controversial statement: "How is he able to say that?"The article discusses the controversy sparked by President Gustavo Petro's claim during the installation of the new Congress that 'no one from the opposition died' under his administration. This statement has drawn strong reactions, particularly from María Claudia Tarazona, wife of Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, who was assassinated in a political attack. Tarazona accused Petro of being complicit in the killing and called him a liar and corrupt individual. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between Petro's government and opposition figures, with critics arguing that Petro downplays the significance of Uribe Turbay's assassination, which had significant political implications. The situation underscores broader concerns about political violence and the safety of opposition leaders in Colombia.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the criticism against President Petro as coming from a politically aligned figure (María Claudia Tarazona), emphasizing his alleged complicity in the murder of a prominent opposition leader. The tone leans left by highlighting the accusations against Petro and portraying his claim
Why factuality (40): This article is about a different legal case involving a judge and congressional salaries, unrelated to Laura Sarabia’s resignation. It contains no relevant information about the primary source document and thus cannot be evaluated for factual accuracy in this context.
Why objectivity (30): The article is focused on a legal dispute and does not address the main event. While it doesn’t show strong bias, it is irrelevant to the subject matter and therefore lacks objectivity in relation to the primary source.
SemanaIndependentCenterFactual 40Objective 306 days ago Maria Fernanda Cabal and Petro have a tough time over the president's new painting: Portrait of a useless personPresident Gustavo Petro and former senator María Fernanda Cabal had a heated exchange over a portrait created for Petro's time in office, which will hang alongside portraits of other former Colombian presidents in the Casa de Nariño. Petro unveiled the portrait, depicting him seated in nature wearing white, and defended its creation. Cabal criticized the image, calling it 'a portrait of a useless person' and questioning the $75 million cost. In response, Petro released a video showing portraits of previous presidents and accused Cabal of hypocrisy by not disclosing the cost of the portrait made for former President Iván Duque. He also highlighted his efforts to lift millions out of poverty using public funds rather than subsidizing his family.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both perspectives without overtly favoring one side. It includes direct quotes from both Petro and Cabal, allowing readers to form their own opinions based on the exchanges between the two figures. There is no evident editorializing or biased language that would indicate a clear
Why factuality (40): This article is about a different legal case involving a judge and congressional salaries, unrelated to Laura Sarabia’s resignation. It contains no relevant information about the primary source document and thus cannot be evaluated for factual accuracy in this context.
Why objectivity (30): The article is focused on a legal dispute and does not address the main event. While it doesn’t show strong bias, it is irrelevant to the subject matter and therefore lacks objectivity in relation to the primary source.
SemanaIndependentProgressive5 hr. ago Abelardo De La Espriella asks officials appointed by his government to guarantee the safety of Angie Rodríguez since August 7Abelardo De La Espriella, quien asumirá la presidencia de Colombia el 7 de agosto, ha pedido a los funcionarios designados garantizar la seguridad de Angie Rodríguez, exfuncionaria del gobierno de Gustavo Petro. Rodríguez ha alertado sobre presuntos intentos del gobierno anterior de extraer más de $1 billón del Fondo Adaptación, argumentando que estas acciones son motivadas por 'criterios de oportunidad política' sin base técnica. El decreto 0802, emitido en julio de 2026, declaró una emergencia por El Niño, lo cual se utilizó como excusa para movilizar fondos. De La Espriella ha solicitado a figuras clave como Rodrigo Lara y Didier Blanco que protejan a Rodríguez y que las autoridades investiguen sus denuncias. Además, Rodríguez acusó a Juliana Guerrero de ejercer presión sobre el gobierno anterior, afirmando que tiene vínculos con el ELN.
Bias read (Progressive): El artículo presenta las denuncias de Angie Rodríguez como legítimas y relevantes, destacando su rol como exfuncionaria cercana al gobierno de Petro. Se enfatiza la necesidad de investigación y protección frente a posibles actos de corrupción, lo cual refleja una visión crítica hacia el gobierno sal
El EspectadorIndependentProgressive7 hr. ago De la Espriella announced the closure of embassies and said that he will not dispatch from Casa de NariñoThe article reports that Colombian President Gustavo Petro has announced plans to close diplomatic missions abroad and stated he will not conduct official business from the presidential palace. The announcement reflects a shift in foreign policy priorities under his administration.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the decision as part of a broader reorientation of Colombia's foreign policy, emphasizing transparency and reduced bureaucratic oversight. While it presents the president's statement neutrally, the context suggests alignment with progressive governance principles.
SemanaIndependentProgressive8 hr. ago Angie Rodríguez lights the alarm: Government Petro seeks to withdraw more than $1 billion from the Fund Adaptation to weeks of leaving powerAngie Rodríguez, directora del Fondo Adaptación, alertó sobre la intención del gobierno del presidente Gustavo Petro de retirar más de $1 billón del fondo a semanas de dejar el poder. Esto ocurrió bajo el Decreto 0802, emitido el 23 de julio de 2026, que declaró una emergencia por El Niño. En una reunión ministerial del 21 de julio, Petro ordenó transferir los recursos, afirmando que eran destinados a la selva y no habían sido utilizados. Rodríguez sostiene que estos fondos están comprometidos para proyectos en La Mojana, aprobados mediante tres decretos y programados hasta 2029. El fondo envió un documento a varias instituciones gubernamentales para explicar que los recursos mencionados no están disponibles para otro uso.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the government's action as politically motivated rather than based on technical necessity, suggesting a lack of transparency and accountability. The emphasis on 'criterios de oportunidad política' without technical support leans left by highlighting potential misuse of public资金 by
El EspectadorIndependentProgressiveyesterday Petro responded to Restrepo after he blamed him for U.S. tariffs.The article reports that Colombian President Gustavo Petro responded to comments made by his former presidential candidate, Sergio Fajardo, regarding responsibility for U.S. tariffs. The piece highlights the political tension between Petro and Fajardo over economic policies, particularly concerning trade relations with the United States.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the conflict as stemming from Petro's leadership and suggests that he was held accountable for economic decisions affecting trade relations. While it presents both perspectives implicitly, the emphasis on Petro's response implies a narrative favoring his accountability, which is a
SemanaIndependentCenteryesterday Gustavo Petro responds to José Manuel Restrepo for tariffs announced by the United States: "I am not responsible"The United States has begun imposing new tariffs on imports from over 60 countries, including Colombia, applying a 12.5% tax on most Colombian imports. This follows an investigation by the U.S. Office of the U.S. Trade Representative into measures to prevent the importation of goods made with forced labor. President Gustavo Petro responded to criticism from incoming Vice President José Manuel Restrepo, who accused him of failing to take action against forced labor in Colombian exports. Petro denied responsibility for U.S. tariff policies and argued that such unilateral actions could violate international trade agreements like the Free Trade Agreement (TLC). He emphasized the need to lower interest rates and reduce production costs to support Colombian exporters. Restrepo claimed that during their visit to the U.S., they were informed that the U.S. had requested Colombia to address forced labor concerns since March 2026, but the current government had failed to act.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both perspectives—President Petro denying responsibility for U.S. tariffs and Vice President-elect Restrepo criticizing the government’s inaction—without overtly favoring one side. The framing remains balanced, focusing on the exchange between officials rather than taking a立场 on
El EspectadorIndependentCenter2 days ago President Petro will move the sword of Bolívar this Friday: that will be the routeThe article reports that Colombian President Gustavo Petro plans to move the sword of Simón Bolívar this Friday, indicating a symbolic journey associated with the national hero. The piece highlights the event as part of a broader cultural or historical initiative under Petro’s administration. No specific details about the route, purpose, or additional context beyond the announcement are provided.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on a planned presidential action without overtly endorsing or criticizing the decision. It focuses on the announcement itself rather than taking a clear ideological stance. There is no evident slant in framing or emphasis.
La Silla VacíaIndependentProgressive4 days ago Colombia has to anticipate El Niño, but does not articulate effortsThe article discusses Colombia's lack of coordinated efforts to prepare for the El Niño phenomenon, despite having the necessary tools. While Central America has implemented proactive measures through the Cepredenac initiative, which includes predefined thresholds, pre-agreed funding, and standardized protocols, Colombia remains fragmented in its approach. Countries like Honduras and Costa Rica have taken significant steps, including early planning, emergency funds, and integrated strategies involving multiple stakeholders. In contrast, Colombia has not unified these efforts into a cohesive system. The article highlights the success of Cepredenac in creating a regional framework for disaster prevention and notes that while Colombia has some initiatives, such as those by the FAO and the Colombian Red Cross, they remain isolated rather than part of a broader strategy.
Bias read (Progressive): The article critiques the lack of coordination in Colombia’s governmental response to El Niño, highlighting successful models in other regions led by multilateral organizations and emphasizing the need for institutionalized preparedness. This framing suggests a preference for centralized, multistake
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