Promigas & Gases de Occidente

Promigas, founded in 1974, is one of the pioneering companies in the natural gas sector in Latin America. Its role has been fundamental in the process of widespread use of this energy source in Colombia. This case presents its history and that of one of its subsidiaries, Gases de Occidente (1992). The case describes the challenges of innovating to increase gas service coverage in contexts where institutional voids are prevalent. The case provides an opportunity to discuss a lack of intermediaries, or the participation of a few actors in these voids, and how companies can take actions to overcome shortcomings. Provision of public services such as gas distribution implies exposure to risks, including interference from political actors with claims unrelated to collective interests. Universidad de Los Andes' case collection.