The Colombian oil and gas sector is currently undergoing technological change, along with other key sectors in Colombia. The government’s National Development Plan (PND) aims to modernize the country, and there are intersecting pacts within the PND that could impact the oil and gas industry. In this article, we will explore these pacts and their relationship with the upstream, midstream, and downstream operations in the oil and gas sector.
This series, “Colombian Oil and Gas Companies amidst the Tech Revolution,” is divided into three parts. Parts 1 and 2 discussed the status, potential, and challenges of the industry. In Part 3, we will delve into how the country can achieve modernization and growth in the oil and gas sector by utilizing the intersecting pacts within the PND.
As mentioned in Part 2, there are several pacts in the PND that drive modernization, and they can also be applied to the oil and gas sector. These pacts include Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), Digital Transformation, and Mining and Energy Resources. We will take a closer look at these pacts and their effects on the oil and gas industry.
The Science, Technology, and Innovation Pact acknowledges that Colombia has invested relatively small amounts of money in STI compared to other countries. The pact aims to increase investment in STI, promote collaboration between universities and companies, take advantage of Colombians with PhD education, and stimulate public innovation. The government plans to adjust the regulatory framework, co-finance research and development projects for small and medium enterprises, and establish the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation to drive STI growth.
The Digital Transformation Pact focuses on bringing internet services to lower-income households and rural areas, as well as improving the interaction between public entities and citizens through digital government strategies. The government aims to accelerate digital social inclusion, develop a policy for digital transformation, improve internet quality, and promote digitalization and automation in public administration procedures. They also plan to auction the radio electric spectrum for 5G mobile development, expand network infrastructure to remote areas, and support innovation and entrepreneurship programs.
The ICT Modernization Law ensures that vulnerable populations have access to communication means and platforms, such as the internet. The law aims to increase legal certainty, modernize the institutional framework of the sector, close the digital gap, and encourage private sector participation in ICT projects.
These pacts and laws present opportunities for the oil and gas industry. Advanced communication systems are already in place, but companies may now be able to invest in other important areas and focus on their core business. Open data systems will allow information sharing and better decision-making among operators. Access to the internet in rural areas will enable remote work and control of operations. ICT platforms are crucial for access, interaction, and optimization in the industry.
In conclusion, through the intersecting pacts and laws within the National Development Plan, the Colombian oil and gas industry has the opportunity to embrace technological advancements and achieve modernization and growth. By investing in STI, digital transformation, and improving access to communication platforms, the industry can become more efficient and environmentally friendly while supporting the country’s development goals.
