Uruguay solar growth targets ambitious capacity expansion by 2025
Uruguay is poised to significantly boost its solar capacity, aiming to install between 100 MW and 200 MW of new capacity by the end of 2025. This strategic move was announced by Silvia Emaldi, President of the National Administration of Power Plants and Electrical Transmissions (UTE), at a conference organized by the German-Uruguayan Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The new solar capacity will be added through competitive processes managed by the National Energy Directorate (DNE). Emaldi confirmed that the first bidding process for this expansion will occur in the coming months, with the entire addition expected to be completed by the end of 2025. This expansion will complement Uruguay’s existing solar capacity of approximately 300 MW, further diversifying its energy mix and accelerating its energy transition. For more details, visit Uruguay solar expansion: 200 MW Capacity Growth by 2025.
Uruguay solar growth to support national renewable energy goals
Uruguay currently has an installed solar capacity of approximately 300 MW. The planned addition of up to 200 MW will significantly enhance the country’s renewable energy infrastructure, supporting its ambitious goals of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and reaching 100% electric mobility by 2040. This expansion is a critical part of Uruguay’s energy strategy, aiming to reduce its reliance on hydroelectric power and increase the share of solar energy in its energy mix. You can learn more about Uruguay’s plans in Uruguay solar power 2025: Discover 200 MW Auction for Renewable Energy.
Private sector joins Uruguay solar growth and future development
The DNE has also announced plans to launch a call for proposals for a 50 MW solar park, which will be one of the first projects to involve private sector participation in Uruguay’s solar energy landscape. Additionally, a second 50 MW project will be developed by the state-owned company UTE.
The DNE’s report further highlights that another 50 MW of solar capacity is already in the process of being installed. With these projects, Uruguay will have a total of around 400 MW of photovoltaic power integrated into its grid by 2025.
Tracing Uruguay solar growth through its renewable energy journey
Uruguay’s renewable energy journey began in 2008 with the launch of the Solar Plan, which promoted the installation of solar thermal energy in homes and played a crucial role in raising awareness and support for solar energy among the Uruguayan population.
The country’s first large-scale photovoltaic project, a 50 MW plant, was inaugurated in early 2014, marking the beginning of Uruguay’s commitment to expanding its solar energy infrastructure. In 2023, Uruguay generated 21% of its total electricity from renewable sources, with solar power contributing 2% of this total. Despite the relatively small share of solar energy in the overall mix, the country’s efforts to expand its solar capacity are expected to significantly increase its contribution in the coming years. For ongoing updates, visit Uruguay Solar News Archives.
Uruguay solar growth reinforces global leadership in renewables
Uruguay is recognized as a global leader in renewable energy, with one of the highest shares of renewables in its electricity mix worldwide. This achievement is largely due to the country’s investments in wind and solar energy, as well as its extensive use of hydropower.
In 2024, Uruguay ranked first in the world for the share of renewables in its electricity mix, with 99.7% of its electricity generation coming from renewable sources. This includes 84% from hydropower, 10% from wind, 4% from solar, and 2% from biomass. This remarkable achievement is the result of Uruguay’s long-term commitment to renewable energy, which began in the early 2000s. The government has implemented a series of policies and programs to support the development of renewable energy, including feed-in tariffs, tax incentives, and research and development funding.
Uruguay’s ambitious solar expansion plans demonstrate its commitment to strengthening its position as a global leader in renewable energy. With the planned addition of up to 200 MW of solar capacity by 2025, the country is well on its way to achieving its renewable energy targets, including carbon neutrality by 2050 and 100% electric mobility by 2040.
