EPM obtained the 2025 carbon neutral operation certification for its energy generation, transmission and distribution businesses, consolidating its mitigation strategy against climate change.
Empresas Públicas de Medellín (EPM) marked a milestone in its sustainability strategy by obtaining certification of carbon neutral operation by 2025 in its energy generation, transmission and distribution segments. This achievement represents a fundamental advance in the strategic direction of Grupo EPM, consolidating its leadership in environmental management within the public services sector in Colombia.
John Maya Salazar, general manager of EPM, highlighted that this recognition is the fruit of a systematic effort to measure and reduce the environmental impact of the organization. According to the manager, the process was based on the precise identification of emission sources, constant monitoring of key indicators and the structuring of verifiable inventories that allow transparent management of the carbon footprint.
Scope of certification and emissions management
The declaration of carbon neutrality granted to the company covers both direct emissions derived from its operation (Scope 1) and those related to the acquisition of electrical energy (Scope 2). This process was carried out under the international standards of the GHG Protocol, ensuring that the company not only estimates its emissions, but also implements concrete actions to mitigate them and compensate for those that, due to technical or economic limitations, cannot yet be eliminated.
During fiscal year 2025, EPM’s energy businesses recorded the emission of 96,786 tons of CO₂ equivalent. To neutralize this impact, the organization resorted to Reduced Emissions Certificates generated by the Porce III hydroelectric plant. These certificates are supported by Cercarbono and meet strict quality, additionality and traceability criteria, independently verified.
Strategic actions for climate mitigation
The path to neutrality has required a series of high-impact investments and operational decisions. Among the measures implemented by EPM, the following stand out:
Programs to control and reduce SF₆ gas leaks in electrical substations.
Modernization of lighting systems using LED technology.
Network optimization for the management of technical losses.
Implementation of innovative technologies, such as the Clean Air system in the Industriales substation.
Promotion of renewable generation projects, including the small hydroelectric plants Minavieja and Coco Hondo in the North of Antioquia, as well as solar developments in Santander.
Commitment to the future and the energy transition
This progress aligns with the global goals of the Paris Agreement, which seeks to limit the increase in global temperature to 1.5°C by the end of the century. By integrating environmental criteria into its decision-making, EPM not only improves its operational efficiency, but also strengthens its resilience to climate challenges that affect energy infrastructure.
The organization’s roadmap now contemplates the expansion of this carbon neutrality model to other sectors, including water provision, wastewater management and gas distribution. The final objective is to consolidate a totally sustainable operation in all areas of the EPM Group, guaranteeing the continuity of this environmental performance in the long term.
It should be noted that the certification was granted by VERSA Certification Experts SAS, an entity accredited by the National Accreditation Body of Colombia (ONAC), specialized in the verification of sustainability projects in Latin America.
Background questions and answers
What certification did EPM obtain and what areas does it cover?
EPM received the 2025 carbon neutral operation certification for its electricity generation, transmission and distribution businesses. This recognition validates its efforts in measuring, reducing and offsetting greenhouse gas emissions.
How did the company manage to neutralize its environmental impact?
To offset the 96,786 tons of CO2 equivalent generated, EPM used reduced emissions certificates from the Porce III hydroelectric plant. In addition, it implemented actions such as control of SF6 gas leaks, modernization to LED lighting and renewable energy projects.
What is EPM’s next step in its sustainability strategy?
The organization plans to expand this carbon neutrality model to its other public service sectors, including water provision, wastewater management and gas distribution.
Source: ifmnoticias.com
