An Application of the Multiple Streams Framework to the Analysis of the Inclusion of Solar Energy in the Energy Mix in Paraguay

Abstract

The energy debate is growing in Latin America in a context of increasing energy demands, due to higher economic growth, but the situation in Paraguay presents contradictions, mainly deficient electric energy service and an unsustainable energy mix in a country that produces a clean‐energy surplus. In 2014, the Paraguayan Vice Ministry of Mines and Energy introduced solar energy into the mix. This article seeks to answer two questions. First, what led to the conclusion that the energy mix is unsustainable, with solar energy viewed as the solution? Second, what other solutions were positively considered but decided against and why? In answering these questions, I use the theoretical approach of the Multiple Streams Framework as an instrument to analyze the agenda‐setting and decision‐making processes. This article concludes that a sum of indicators regarding energy supply shortage and increasing demand exerted serious pressure on the government to classify the current energy mix as unsustainable, but an attempt to reorganize the energy sector by creating a new Ministry of Energy, Mines and Hydrocarbons was abandoned because of political disinterest.