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Uruguay seeks to position itself as a key player in regional energy integration. The Yamandú Orsi administration is working on a proposal to build a gas pipeline connecting Argentina's Vaca Muerta field with Brazil, crossing through Uruguayan territory. The objective is clear: to leverage its strategic location and institutional stability to become a reliable energy distribution channel in the Southern Cone.
Prerequisites: regional geopolitical and energy context
To assess the scale of this project, several factors must be considered. First, the importance of Vaca Muerta as one of the world's largest unconventional gas reserves. Second, Uruguay's geographic location , which places it between the two producing and demanding countries, with infrastructure already connected to Argentina. Lastly, the Uruguayan government's interest in consolidating energy alliances that strengthen its energy mix and attract foreign investment. In this context, the proposal does not arise from improvisation, but from a technical study presented by the Ministry of Industry, Energy, and Mining to the Presidency.
Uruguay advances in planning a strategic regional gas pipeline
Minister Fernanda Cardona confirmed that her ministry delivered a detailed report to Orsi, including a potential gas pipeline route and demand estimates. The document will serve as a roadmap for negotiations with neighboring countries and investors. The government plans to begin construction in 2030 , the year the current presidential term ends.
A project supported since the beginning of the new government
Cardona revealed that the issue was included on the government's agenda from the first month of his administration. The initiative not only seeks to position Uruguay as an energy transit country , but also as a direct beneficiary of gas , using it to boost its industry.
Evaluation of alternatives and regional competition
In addition to the Uruguayan plan, other routes are under consideration: one that modernizes a gas pipeline that crosses Bolivia and another that connects Argentina with Brazil through Paraguay. In July, Paraguay and Argentina signed a memorandum of understanding to study this alternative. However, Uruguay is banking on its political stability, geographic proximity , and existing connections as differentiating factors.
Cardona's vision of the project's potential
In an interview with Bloomberg News , the minister emphasized the opportunity this natural resource represents. “Argentina's gas resources will be sufficient to supply other countries. We must think ahead so that, if that happens, Uruguay can also benefit,” she stated. To reinforce this vision, Cardona made an official visit to Vaca Muerta earlier this year, where she assessed the interest in pursuing the project on-site.
An energy bridge for national industrial development
In addition to fulfilling a regional role, the gas pipeline would allow Uruguay to supply its own industrial demand. This component is key to boosting strategic sectors and ensuring more competitive prices, consolidating a diversified and sustainable energy matrix .
