ContourGlobal, a global independent power producer, has officially inaugurated Latin America’s largest solar plant with battery storage in Chile. The 143 MW solar plant, located in the Antofagasta region, is equipped with a 54 MWh battery storage system, making it one of the largest hybrid solar and storage facilities in the world.
The project, named “Puquios Solar and Storage,” has an investment of approximately $240 million and is expected to generate 340 GWh of clean energy per year. The plant will power approximately 170,000 homes in Chile, reducing the country’s carbon footprint and dependence on fossil fuels.
The innovative hybrid design of the plant combines solar energy with battery storage, allowing for dispatchable, reliable, and renewable power generation. The battery system, provided by Tesla, ensures a stable and continuous supply of electricity to the grid, even when the sun is not shining.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chilean government officials, including the Minister of Energy, Juan Carlos Jobet, and the Minister of Sustainability, Carolina Schmidt. ContourGlobal’s CEO, Amir Shavadia, emphasized the significance of the project, stating that it showcases the company’s commitment to renewable energy and its role in helping Chile meet its sustainability goals.
The Puquios Solar and Storage project has created over 500 jobs during its construction phase and will contribute to the local economy through taxes and community benefits. The plant is also designed to be scalable, allowing for future expansion to increase its capacity and generate even more clean energy.
Chile is a leader in renewable energy in Latin America, and this project is a significant step towards the country’s goal of generating 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2035. ContourGlobal’s investment in the Puquios Solar and Storage project demonstrates its confidence in Chile’s energy market and its commitment to supporting the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy.