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Case
| HBS Case Collection
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2011
(Revised from original 2009 version)
Colbun - Powering Chile
by
Forest L. Reinhardt, Gustavo A. Herrero and Sanjay Patnaik
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Abstract
This case is about Colbun, Chile's second largest electricity generator, which is facing significant uncertainty regarding the cost and availability of alternative energy sources. Problems with the contracted supply of natural gas and the volatility of oil prices, coupled with regulatory changes made by the government, force Colbun to revise its business strategy and its sourcing mix. New legislation will replace historically regulated electricity prices for certain customers with free market prices and therefore change the conditions under which the company must operate. The case also deals with the pros and cons of various energy sources in view of their perceived environmental impact. As the company's CEO, Bernardo Larrain Matte has to take all these different considerations into account when planning Colbun's future, especially in the light of new opportunities and challenges posed by global climate change. The case analyzes the Chilean electricity sector and the operations of Colbun to illustrate the complexities associated with conducting business under the influence of global energy markets, government regulations, and environmental activism.
Keywords: Non-Renewable Energy;
Globalized Markets and Industries;
Governing Rules, Regulations, and Reforms;
Government Legislation;
Organizational Change and Adaptation;
Business and Government Relations;
Weather and Climate Change;
Business Strategy;
Energy Industry;
Chile;
Citation:
Reinhardt, Forest L., Gustavo A. Herrero, and Sanjay Patnaik. "Colbun - Powering Chile." Harvard Business School Case 709-060, December 2011. (Revised from original June 2009 version.)