Enel Green Power Launches Atacama Solar Power Complex in Chile
Enel Green Power has launched the Oasis de Atacama solar power complex in Chile, marking a significant milestone in the country’s transition to renewable energy. As the largest complex of its kind in Latin America, it combines four solar farms to generate 1 GW of electricity.
Oasis de Atacama: A Closer Look at the Complex
The Oasis de Atacama complex consists of four distinct solar farms: Azabache (60 MW), Domeyko (204 MW), Campos del Sol (375 MW), and Finis Terrae (160 MW). Spanning 1,450 hectares, the project uses 2.3 million bifacial photovoltaic panels to reach its total capacity.
Annually, the complex generates 3.1 TWh of electricity—enough to power 1.2 million Chilean homes. This substantial output is vital for Chile’s renewable energy goals, helping to cut carbon emissions by an estimated 1.4 million tons per year.
How Atacama Solar Power Supports Chile’s Energy Goals
Located in one of the world’s sunniest regions, Chile’s Atacama Desert is an ideal setting for solar power generation. The Oasis de Atacama complex, a massive Atacama desert solar farm, is a critical part of the country’s plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
By significantly reducing the nation’s dependence on fossil fuels, this initiative aligns with global efforts to combat climate change. This commitment is also reflected in AES Andes’ launch of the Andes Solar IV power complex, which also harnesses the Atacama Desert’s solar potential with 211 MW of photovoltaic panels.
Enel Green Power’s Investment in Regional Solar Projects
This investment in the Atacama Desert is a key part of Enel Green Power’s broader strategy to expand its renewable energy footprint across Latin America. The company operates in several key countries, including Brazil, Peru, Argentina, Colombia, and Panama.
Its regional portfolio includes major initiatives like the Pampa Norte complex in Chile (1.3 GW solar) and Latin America’s largest wind farm, Lagoa dos Ventos in Brazil (1.1 GW). Across all its wind, solar, and hydroelectric facilities in Latin America, Enel Green Power has a total renewable capacity of 8.3 GW.
The Future of Renewable Energy in Latin America
The Oasis de Atacama complex highlights a broader trend toward renewable energy adoption throughout Latin America. The region’s abundant natural resources, particularly solar and wind, position it as a key player in global renewable development.
Countries like Brazil, Chile, and Mexico are investing heavily in these projects to reduce their carbon footprints and promote sustainable growth. These efforts are crucial for meeting rising energy demands while minimizing environmental impact.
As a powerful example of this potential, the Oasis de Atacama complex showcases what is possible. With continued investment in similar large-scale projects, Latin America is on track to play a pivotal role in the global transition to a low-carbon economy and a more sustainable future.
