The new operators of Argentina’s Comahue hydroelectric complex have officially taken possession of the Alicurá, El Chocón, Piedra del Águila and Cerros Colorados dams, following the completion of the country’s privatisation process for these assets.
The handover ensures full continuity of operations, dispatch and electricity trading within Argentina’s Wholesale Electricity Market (Mercado Eléctrico Mayorista, MEM), with no disruption to power supply, while the remaining administrative procedures are finalised. The transition is being carried out under a temporary regulatory framework established by the Secretariat of Energy within the Ministry of Economy.
The companies awarded the concessions are:
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Edison Inversiones: Alicurá and Cerros Colorados
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BML Inversora: El Chocón
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Central Puerto: Piedra del Águila
At the same time, CAMMESA, Argentina’s wholesale electricity market administrator, has implemented the necessary adjustments to system programming, dispatch, settlements, registration and financial guarantees. These measures are designed to secure an orderly transition with no impact on the operation of the national power system.
In addition to the upfront payments already made to the federal government as part of the privatisation process, the new concessionaires are contractually obliged to carry out a comprehensive refurbishment programme across the plants. This modernisation package—estimated at around USD 400 million—includes equipment upgrades, technological renewal and safety improvements aimed at extending asset life, increasing efficiency and raising operational safety standards across the hydroelectric complexes.
The companies have a 30-day period from the date of takeover to complete the submission of all final documentation required under the concession framework.
The transfer of control represents a significant milestone in the restructuring and modernisation of the Comahue hydroelectric system. The new operators have committed to delivering safe, efficient and sustainable operations, strengthening Argentina’s energy security and consolidating a management model based on clear rules, regulatory predictability and long-term investment.
