Zelestra’s 1 GW Solar Portfolio and Peru solar regulations
Peruvian energy company Zelestra S.A.C. is urging the government to establish clearer regulations and incentives for the renewable energy industry as it advances a significant 1 GW solar portfolio. This initiative, composed of three separate projects, is a crucial step in reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and stabilizing its energy supply.
In a statement on December 16, 2025, Zelestra’s Country Manager for Peru, Juan Pedro Aramburu, highlighted the importance of a supportive regulatory framework to encourage growth. He emphasized that clear signals from the government are needed to attract investors and secure long-term commitments. According to Aramburu, the current lack of guidelines makes it challenging for companies to move forward with large-scale renewable projects, despite being ready to proceed. Zelestra has its three projects, totaling 1 GW, ready to begin construction in 2026. Understanding the basics of solar panel manufacturing helps put the scale of such an undertaking into perspective.
Aramburu also mentioned that Zelestra is preparing to participate in future government auctions to secure Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). However, the timeline for these auctions remains uncertain, underscoring the company’s call for explicit guidelines to proceed with its plans.
The Role of Energy Storage and Diversification in Peru solar regulations
Zelestra’s 1 GW solar portfolio plans to incorporate energy storage systems to ensure a stable energy supply. The company is currently evaluating the hybridization of these solar projects with storage solutions and is also exploring an entry into Peru’s wind power sector. The necessary land has reportedly been secured in the Ica region, and the company is working on obtaining environmental and grid connection approvals.
The energy storage component is critical for balancing fluctuations inherent in renewable energy production. Sources like solar and wind are intermittent, with output varying based on weather conditions. Energy storage systems maintain a consistent supply by storing excess energy during peak production and releasing it when production is low. The complexity of the solar panel manufacturing process is matched by the sophisticated technology required for these large-scale storage solutions.
Peru’s Energy Landscape and Peru solar regulations
Peru’s current energy matrix is heavily reliant on fossil fuels. In 2022, 58% of the country’s energy came from fossil fuels, while hydropower accounted for 38%. Renewable energy sources made up only 4% of the total supply. The addition of 1 GW of solar power, combined with energy storage, is expected to significantly reduce Peru’s carbon footprint.
It is estimated that the new solar projects could cut down on fossil fuel consumption by up to 20%. This reduction would not only decrease greenhouse gas emissions but also lower energy costs for consumers. The transition involves a shift in reliance from fossil fuels to the specific solar panel raw materials needed for this green technology, which can bring long-term economic benefits.
Zelestra’s Commitment to Renewable Energy and Peru solar regulations
Zelestra has been an active participant in Peru’s renewable energy sector since 2010. The company was one of the first to join renewable energy auctions held between 2009 and 2016. During that period, Zelestra secured a 30 MW solar project at a cost of US$0.12 per kWh, a competitive price at the time that demonstrated the company’s commitment to affordable and sustainable energy.
However, the cost of renewable energy has decreased dramatically since then. In a 2016 solar auction in Mexico, for example, prices dropped to US$0.025 per kWh. As technology continues to improve, particularly in the efficiency of solar panel manufacturing machines, the cost of solar power is expected to fall even further. This trend highlights the importance of government support in making renewable energy more accessible and affordable.
The Future of Renewable Energy in Peru solar regulations
Zelestra’s push for clearer regulations comes at a critical time for Peru’s energy sector. The country’s growing energy demand, combined with global efforts to combat climate change, makes the transition to renewables more urgent than ever. By investing in large-scale solar projects and energy storage, Peru can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and build a more sustainable energy future.
The success of Zelestra’s 1 GW solar portfolio could serve as a model for other renewable energy initiatives in the country. With the right government support, Peru has the potential to become a leader in renewable energy in South America. Clear regulations, incentives, and a strong legal framework will be essential to attracting more investment and ensuring the industry’s long-term success.
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