In Nicaragua, a reform to the Hydrocarbon Supply Law was approved, which allows thermal generators to "freely" import fuels derived from hydrocarbons.
In relation to the approved reform of urgent character, Patricia Rodriguez, expert in energy, explained to Elnuevodiario.com.ni that "... it is not clear what will be the role of the Nicaraguan Company of Petroleum (Petronic) nor why the refinery of the company Puma Energy will stop producing full oil to generate electric energy."
The Canadian company Union Oil & Gas Group has announced that an agreement signed with the Ortega administration will allow them to carry out exploration works in the Sandino Basin in the Pacific.
This agreement is added to the four signed in June last year with Statoil for exploration and extraction works in a total area of 16 thousand square kilometers, also in the Pacific.
The Nicaraguan Oil Company has signed a cooperation agreement with a Canadian company for exploration of oil and gas.
Following the agreement signed between the company EastSiberian Plc, belonging to TMX Group in Canada and the National Oil Company of Nicaragua (Petronic) the Ministry of Energy and Mines has been approached in order to start negotiations for the subsequent signing of concession contracts.
The adoption of the amendments to the hydrocarbon law provides for the participation of the state run company Petronic in exploration activities and the ability to partner with other companies engaged in the activity.
The amended law authorizes Empresa Nicaragüense de Petróleo (Petronic) to represent the State in the exploration and exploitation of oil and "... make 'associations and partnerships with companies who come to explore and exploit hydrocarbons.'"