Within the framework of Argentina Oil & Gas (AOG), Ramón Rioseco, mayor of Cutral Co, emphasized the importance of seizing the current moment of the province of Neuquén in the energy sector. In an interview with Canal 7, Rioseco stressed the need for investments in infrastructure to sustain growth.
"We are at an investment peak because there is no evacuation capacity," said Rioseco, referring to the LNG plant and current limitations to increase gas and oil production in the region. He highlighted that Cutral Co has reached a peak of 16 million cubic meters per day, which equals 15% of national production, but the evacuation capacity is the main challenge for new investments.
Additionally, Rioseco underscored the need to continue investing in infrastructure to avoid problems like those experienced in Rincón de los Sauces, where lack of essential works has hindered local development. He indicated that despite the increase in gas and oil production with investments exceeding 5 billion dollars this year, without new infrastructure works, it will be challenging to maintain growth.
Regarding economic diversification, the mayor highlighted the inauguration of a solar park in the region, which has become the southernmost in the world, as an initiative to change the productive matrix and generate alternatives for economic development. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of working together with companies and governments to address the infrastructure challenges the province faces.
On the other hand, Rioseco pointed out the impact of national political decisions on the province's infrastructure, mentioning that the halt of public works has deepened problems, with 200 projects frozen. He also noted that the lack of infrastructure not only incurs economic costs but also causes fatal accidents, particularly on routes like Route 7.
In conclusion, Rioseco highlighted the need for predictability and evacuation capacity to continue investing at a promising time for Neuquén, emphasizing the importance of collaboratively addressing infrastructure challenges between companies and governments.
