A Key Meeting for Energy Federalism
The city of Posadas, in the province of Misiones, is set to host the 24th Assembly of Governors of the Norte Grande on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. The meeting, led by host governor Hugo Passalacqua, promises to be a crucial forum for resolving pending initiatives and advancing policies that benefit all regions of Argentina.
According to reports from La Política Online and Los Andes, Chief of Staff Diego Santilli will join the summit with the goal of consolidating support for the so-called Zonas Frías Law, which seeks to modify gas subsidies for winter heating.
What Are Zonas Frías and Zonas Cálidas?
To understand the debate, it's essential to grasp these concepts. Zonas Frías (Cold Zones) are regions of Argentina—approximately 70% of the territory—that require state subsidies for gas to cope with high heating costs during the harsh winter. In contrast, Zonas Cálidas (Hot Zones), mainly in the north, need assistance for electricity consumption used for cooling during the summer.
Governors Demand Equity
The governor of Tucumán, Osvaldo Jaldo, confirmed his attendance and announced that the northern provinces will support the national project to benefit the south with gas, but they will demand federal equity. Just as the south is heated, the north must be cooled, he emphasized, as reported by Cadena 3.
Santilli is expected to ease tensions after last week's setback in the Senate, when chapters on land foreignization were voted on. However, governors are seeking the nation to fulfill previously made commitments. Economy Minister Luis Caputo reportedly promised a decree to compensate hot zones after the bill's partial approval in the Chamber of Deputies two months ago—a commitment that has not yet materialized.
Senators such as Flavia Royón (Salta) and Mendoza's Rodolfo Suárez have expressed doubts about advancing the treatment in the middle of winter, arguing that a comprehensive approach is needed. Despite this, the Casa Rosada remains optimistic, assuring that there is total normalcy and agreement on the matter, working together to benefit both regions.
Infrastructure Agenda
On Thursday, August 13, 2026, Santilli and Caputo are expected to travel to Catamarca to meet with Governor Raúl Jalil and Santiago del Estero's Elías Suárez. The goal is to launch the Albigasta Aqueduct and Water Treatment Plant Network, financed with a BID loan of ARS 99,769 million, which will benefit 35,900 residents.
Highway Management
Additionally, Santilli and Caputo met with San Juan Governor Marcelo Orrego to sign an agreement delegating the comprehensive management of national highways (40, 20, 153, 150, and 149) to the province for 20 years. The works will transfer to the National Highway Administration once completed.
Schedule in Posadas
According to Primera Edición, activities will begin at 10:00 AM with the arrival of governors at the Provincial Hangar. At 10:20 AM, an institutional photo will be taken on the esplanade of the Parque del Conocimiento. The assembly will formally start at 10:45 AM, followed by a press conference at 12:45 PM and a working lunch. Topics will include the impact of the El Niño climate phenomenon and the development of the Federal Energy Strategy.