Is the Central Cordillera of Colombia a potential source of graphite?: Implications for the energy transition in Colombia

Abstract

With the imperative to diversify energy matrices and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, nations are actively exploring alternative sources of energy. In that sense, graphite, due to its role in lithium batteries, emerges as a pivotal component in the global energy transition. Governments, recognizing the strategic significance of certain minerals, compile lists of critical minerals to achieve energy autonomy. However, in the recent update of Colombia’s critical mineral list, noteworthy minerals such as lithium and graphite were overlooked. Despite the widespread presence of graphite along the Central Cordillera of Colombia, potentially extending into the Real Cordillera in Ecuador, its importance has remained largely unnoticed for years. This manuscript underscores the critical need to comprehensively characterize graphite occurrences in the Andes of Colombia. The manifestations of graphite suggest its potential significance in the pursuit of cleaner energy sources. This study aims to draw attention to the overlooked role of graphite, urging a reevaluation of its inclusion in Colombia’s critical minerals list to enhance the nation’s strategic positioning in the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions.