French utility EDF has inaugurated its 480-MW CEME1 solar farm in Chile’s Atacama Desert, a landmark project now set to be enhanced with a co-located battery energy storage system (BESS).
CEME1 Solar Farm: A Landmark in Chile’s Renewable Energy Landscape
Spanning 435 hectares (1,075 acres), CEME1 is Chile’s largest solar farm and a significant milestone in the country’s renewable energy efforts. Featuring 882,000 advanced solar panels, the facility marks a key step in the global transition to sustainable power.
Chile’s Largest Solar Farm to Power 500,000 Homes
Developed by Generadora Metropolitana—a joint venture between EDF and Chilean energy company AME—this major solar power generation plant is situated seven kilometers from Maria Elena in the Atacama region. The facility will generate enough clean energy to power 500,000 households, preventing an estimated 280,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually.
CEME1 also incorporates innovative features designed to enhance both efficiency and sustainability. Its fixed-structure design orients modules east and west to maximize solar energy capture throughout the day, while an automated panel cleaning process is expected to reduce water consumption by up to 90%.
Generadora Metropolitana Enhances Solar Farm with 1,200 MWh Battery Project
To complement the solar farm, Generadora Metropolitana is developing a 1,200 MWh battery project. This large-scale system will store energy from the solar farm, enhancing its efficiency and ensuring a consistent, reliable supply of renewable power for the Chilean grid.
Béatrice Buffon, Chairman of EDF Renewables, said, “EDF is pleased to support Chile’s energy transition through the establishment of this significant solar facility, which forms a crucial component of our hybrid thermal and renewable energy platform in the country. The inauguration of CEME 1 marks a milestone for both Chile and EDF, underscoring its scale and innovative construction techniques. This project reinforces our commitment to advancing towards a carbon-neutral and sustainable future while enhancing EDF’s presence in Chile.”
EDF’s Commitment to Renewable Energy
As a prominent French utility, EDF is a leader in the global energy transition. Established in 1946, it has become one of the world’s largest electricity producers, with a strong focus on both nuclear and renewable energy. Operating in over 20 countries, EDF boasts a diverse portfolio of nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, and solar power, with 770 MW of installed renewable capacity in Chile alone.
While it is the world’s largest nuclear power operator—managing 58 reactors in France and others in the United Kingdom, China, and the United States—EDF is also deeply committed to renewable energy. This dedication is evident in its significant investments in wind, solar, and hydropower projects.
