On September 1, 2026, the Secretary of Energy published Resolution No. 218/2026 (the “Resolution 218”), instructing CAMMESA (Argentina’s ISO) to launch the advance procurement process for seven (7) single-phase transformers (the “Transformers”), their spare parts, and supervision services for installation and commissioning, for the “AMBA I” high-voltage transmission expansion works (the “Work”).
Resolution 218 is framed within the bidding process initiated by Resolution No. 202/2026 of the Secretary of Energy, which launched the National and International Multi-Stage Public Tender No. 34-0003-LPU26 for the construction, operation and maintenance of the Work under the “Expansions through Public Works Concessions” regulatory framework (the “Tender”) (see our comments here).
In this context, the Specific Bidding Terms and the Public Works Concession Agreement template provide that CAMMESA may acquire equipment in advance to be used by the selected bidder (the “Concessionaire”) in the construction of the Work.
In that regard, Resolution 218 notes that CAMMESA identified Transformers as critical to the Work’s schedule due to long international-market lead times and the resulting risk of delays to commercial operation, proposing their advance procurement.
On this basis, among other measures, Resolution 218 instructs CAMMESA to:
- launch, within thirty (30) days of publication of Resolution 218, i.e. September 30th, a national and international public tender for the procurement of the Transformers, their spare parts and supervision of installation and commissioning;
- enter into contracts with the successful bidders, acting as agent for the National Government; and
- once the Tender has been awarded and the Concession Agreement executed assign to the Concessionaire, at no cost, the relevant equipment supply contracts and CAMMESA’s contractual position thereunder.
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Energy, Infrastructure and Natural Resources Team