Sasipa, a state-owned utility on Chile’s Easter Island, has issued a call for expressions of interest (EOI) to identify potential partners for a 2.994-MW solar project paired with a battery energy storage system (BESS) of at least 2 MWh.
Rapa Nui Aims for Energy Transition with Solar Project
The remote Chilean island, known as Rapa Nui, currently relies on hydrocarbons for 99% of its energy, with solar power generating only 1%. To reduce this dependence on fossil fuels, the utility plans to integrate the new solar-plus-storage system with the existing thermal power plant it manages.
The project will be located at a pre-approved site near Mataveri International Airport, close to the Mataveri thermal power plant. While the island’s current medium voltage is 6.6 kV, the new system must be designed for a future grid upgrade to 13.2 kV. Consequently, all medium voltage insulation, transformer taps, and measurement equipment must be prepared for this higher voltage level without requiring additional investments.
Competitive Bidding for Solar Plant and BESS Project
The selected bidder will be awarded a contract to design, construct, monitor, and maintain the solar plant and BESS, with a maintenance period of 24 months.
Sasipa has structured the bidding process in two phases. During the first phase, prospective bidders must submit their credentials—including legal documents, financial statements, and records of previous projects—by September 22. Sasipa will then finalize a shortlist of potential candidates by October 8.
The second phase, which includes bidding by pre-qualified candidates and the final award, will begin once Sasipa secures project financing from the Inter-American Development Bank. The utility anticipates obtaining the funds by the end of this year.
Sasipa requires all interested parties to adhere to its strict code of conduct and anti-bribery policy. Furthermore, solar panel suppliers for the project must provide proof that their products were not manufactured using child or forced labor.
Transforming Easter Island’s Energy Landscape
This initiative is set to transform the island’s energy generation system, which is currently dominated by thermal power from hydrocarbons.
The project will decrease Easter Island’s reliance on fossil fuels while promoting the development of clean energy in one of Chile’s most unique locations.
