Under the transitional regime established by the Energy Secretariat of Argentina’s Economy Ministry, the new operators of the Comahue hydroelectric dams assumed management without any interruption to operations, dispatch or power sales within the Wholesale Electricity Market (MEM). The framework ensures full continuity of service while the final administrative procedures are completed.
The companies awarded the concessions and now in charge of operations are Edison Inversiones S.A.U. (Alicurá and Cerros Colorados), BML Inversora S.A.U. (El Chocón) and Central Puerto S.A. (Piedra del Águila).
At the same time, the Wholesale Electricity Market Administrator, CAMMESA, began the necessary adjustments in scheduling, dispatch, settlements, registration and guarantees, ensuring an orderly transition with no impact on the operation of Argentina’s national power system.
In addition to the economic bids already paid to the federal government, the concessionaires are required to carry out a comprehensive “rebumping” of the plants—a package of modernization, refurbishment and technological upgrades estimated at around $400 million. The investments are aimed at extending the useful life of the equipment, improving efficiency and raising operational safety standards at the hydroelectric complexes.
These investments are part of the contractual obligations that the new operators must execute in the coming years. The concessionaires have 30 calendar days from taking possession to complete the final required documentation.
The transfer of control marks a decisive milestone in the reorganization and modernization of the Comahue hydroelectric system. The new operators take on the commitment to ensure safe, efficient and sustainable operations, strengthening the country’s energy security and consolidating a management framework based on clear rules, predictability and long-term investment.