Empresas Públicas de Medellín (EPM)’s 2.4 GW Ituango hydroelectric project has been awarded the Silver certification by the Hydropower Sustainability Alliance (HSA).
This recognition highlights the project’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) sustainability, making it the first project in Latin America to achieve this distinction.
Support from Global Sustainability Program
The certification, valid until November 2026, signifies Ituango’s adherence to the highest sustainability standards.
This achievement was made possible with the support of the Global Program for Strengthening Capacities in Sustainable Hydropower, funded by the Swiss Economic Cooperation (SECO) and implemented by the HSA.
This program aims to promote the application of international best practices in hydroelectric project management, benefiting countries like Colombia, Indonesia, Morocco, Tajikistan, and Albania.
Promoting Sustainable Hydropower Development
Eddie Rich, CEO of the International Hydropower Association (IHA), emphasized the importance of sustainable hydropower, stating, “Going forward, the only acceptable hydropower is sustainable hydropower.
The Ituango project exemplifies this by providing reliable and renewable electricity while promoting long-term sustainability and energy security.” He believes that by collectively adopting and demonstrating sustainable practices, IHA members can solidify hydropower’s crucial role in achieving net-zero emissions.
Commitment to ESG Performance and Community Development
John Maya Salazar, EPM’s General Manager, highlighted the project’s dedication to responsible business practices, saying, “This recognition results from our business management, which cares for and respects natural resources and communities.”
He emphasized that the certification reaffirms EPM’s alignment with international performance standards on environmental and social sustainability, leveraging initiatives that contribute to the development of the project’s area of influence.
The certification also acknowledges EPM’s efforts in ensuring resources for environmental and social management, demonstrating resilience and recovery after contingencies, managing environmental requirements during construction, and contributing to forest conservation and community development.
Rigorous Assessment and Certification System
The Hydropower Sustainability Alliance (HSA), a multilateral non-profit organization, plays a crucial role in promoting transparency in the hydropower sector.
It does this through its rigorous sustainability assessment and certification system and a robust capacity-building program, all based on the Hydropower Sustainability Standard, which aligns with the performance standards of the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
Meeting Colombia’s Energy Demand and Global Standards
João Costa, Executive Director of the HSA, expressed excitement about Ituango’s achievement as the second-largest project to be certified under the Hydropower Sustainability Standard.
With an anticipated capacity to meet 17% of Colombia’s electricity demand, the project’s certification underscores EPM’s dedication to improving sustainability and aligning with global best practices and environmental standards.