Problems surrounding an ethanol plant that is to be built by Ecopetrol’s (NYSE:EC) biofuels unit Bioenergy have made their way to the Colombian Senate, and Senate Martiza Martínez wants ECP president Javier Gutiérrez and Bioenergy manager Aleck Santamaría de la Cruz to explain the status of the plant.
The Minister of Environment (MinAmbiente) Gabriel Vallejo has signed off on a decree that authorizes an expedited licensing process as promised by President Juan Manuel Santos, but which has stoked push-back from environmentalists.
While authorities say all is well, some industry players say that the increase in demand for natural gas –some 57.2% between 2009-2014- is already creating shortfalls in supply that could lead to rationing.
The direct negotiation phase of collective bargaining between Ecodiesel and the USO ended last week and workers will vote on Tuesday, October 14 whether to strike or not.
The Attorney General Eduardo Montealegre ignited controversy and rejection from the government this week after telling a forum that the authorities should close judicial cases against guerrilla members and not press for jail time.
Ecopetrol’s (NYSE:EC) new regional vice president Francy Ramírez Arroyave has taken her post and looks to strengthen the company’s regional presence and autonomy, while at the same time staying aligned with larger corporate objectives like growing overall production.
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