OBELA Analysis

The energy transition in Latin America has the structural problem that has been dragging on in the region for ever: the lack of capital. To solve this, external financing has been the main driver of the change in the energy matrix. 

The main financiers are the Export-Import Bank of China, the China Development Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF) and the U.S. Agency for International Development, in that order.

It should be noted that the Caribbean Basin is mainly financed by the USA and South America by China. Although the U.S. finances renewables more than dirty energy, in terms of amounts it does not compare with the Asian economy. External financing for renewables is vital for Latin America's energy transition. It should not be forgotten that Latin America is a disputed territory and the control of renewables is key.

The last COP26, held in Glasgow, Scotland, sought to establish agreements that would define commitments to reduce greenhouse gases, and thus face climate deterioration. With not very sharp proposals and almost no action plans.

According to the latest Report on Climate Change, published by the IPCC, it is necessary to maintain the temperature increase limit at 1.5 ° C to avoid the irreversible loss of biodiversity. However, the little cooperation of the countries that pollute the most and the promises without plans of action keep the global climate issue adrift.

The countries that contribute the most to the climate crisis, through the relocation of oil production and exports, are precisely those that refuse to commit to lowering their emissions and paying for damages; which leaves countries affected by climate change in an even more vulnerable position and without the possibility of mitigating its effects.

In May 2021, President Joseph Biden released his proposed 2022 U.S. budget, outlining spending levels for the next ten years. The program has been modified during congressional negotiations, as the real cost of some policies could be excessive.

The constant deficit of the US government has not favored the economic growth of the country. The increase in public debt at an average annual rate of 7% between 2010 and 2021 translated into an annual GDP growth rate of 1.9% in the same period. According to estimates in the congressional resolution, its growing debt issuance will continue.

If approved, the question is not just whether these expenditures and investments have an impact on national income and are capable of stimulating private investment in the midst of the post-pandemic recovery.