Since the application of a series of regulatory reforms in 2003, Colombia has seen a marked increase in coal production.
In the last few years, Colombia has increased its importance as an energy producer in the Western Hemisphere. Colombia is the largest coal producer in South America.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that Colombia consumed 1.545 quadrillion British thermal units of energy in 2012. Oil consumption constituted 40%, followed by hydroelectricity, natural gas, and coal. The country relies on hydropower for the bulk of its electricity needs and uses very little coal domestically. Of the 94.2 million short t of coal produced, Colombia exported 87% in 2013. Natural gas consumption in Colombia has grown, rising by more than 54% in the past decade.
Adapted from press release by Joseph Green