Integration of non-conventional renewable sources of energy in developing countries. Challenges and opportunities in the Colombian case

Energy plays a fundamental role in developing societies worldwide, with most of its changes affecting economic progress [1]. As stated in the “Plan Nacional de Desarrollo, PND 2022-2026” chapter four, the challenges posed must drive innovation in energy transition, leading to technological advancements, greater supply capacity, and improved energy efficiency rates, including environmental aspects [2]. At the same time, global behavior shows increasing energy consumption rates, with forecasts pointing to a 49% increase in global energy consumption between 2007 and 2035. Developing countries, including Colombia, would increase their demand by 84%, while developed countries will do it by 14% [3, 4]. The previous situation implies more outstanding commitments from the developed nations. Furthermore, the environment is increasingly crucial, limiting the management and use of energy resources. Several regulations have stimulated the inclusion of new sources and technologies not previously considered in the traditional energy market. In particular, promoting non-fossil energy resources and implementing more flexible systems are becoming competitive scenarios due to successful research efforts and the consequent advancement in learning curves [3]. Therefore, global economic improvement will largely depend on technological industry changes. Reinventing energy and leveraging it to take advantage is crucial in facing the challenges ahead, and implementing these measures can build new industries, economies, and fortunes of this century [5].