Renewable energy has grown increasingly prevalent in recent years as companies and governments worldwide recognize the benefits of moving towards a more sustainable future. The global shift towards more renewable energy will continue to expand as advances in renewable technology develop and more countries around the world implement renewable energy initiatives.

Argentina is the third largest power market in Latin America. While Argentina is still predominantly powered by fossil fuels with about 87% of energy deriving from non-renewable sources, the government has set an aggressive initiative to reach 20% of power demand to be covered by renewable energy by the end of 2025. Due to the high demand, Argentina is quickly moving towards renewable energy and is at the precipice of significant renewable energy development.

As the second largest country in South America, spanning from the wind-swept plains of Patagonia to the sunny subtropical lands in the north, Argentina is abundant with natural resources ripe for wind, solar, and biomass energies. Global criteria for wind energy productions requires average winds of 5m/s or higher to generate wind energy, while Argentina regularly exceeds that criteria with an average of 6m/s and up to 9m/s throughout Patagonia. Its significant wind resources makes Argentina a perfect candidate for further renewable energy development with the potential to become a regional leader in the use of this technology.

Our program aims to educate participants about Argentina’s abundant natural resources and the great initiative this country is making towards a more sustainable future. This program provides students a first hand look at Argentina’s renewable energy technologies and the future plans for development. Students will have the opportunity to meet with leaders in the field, tour various renewable energy sites both in the city and the countryside, as well as tour socially and environmentally centered organizations who are pushing the envelope of renewable energy initiatives in Argentina. While gaining a deep understanding of the sustainable energy landscape, students will also be able to enjoy many of the cultural and social aspects that make Argentina such a culturally rich country.