March 7, 2026

Sonsonate solar project: Impressive 50 MW Build Starts

Enel Green Power’s Sonsonate solar project: Impressive 50 MW Build Starts in El Salvador

Marking a significant investment in Central America’s renewable energy landscape, Enel Green Power has initiated the construction of a new 50-megawatt solar photovoltaic facility in the Sonsonate department of El Salvador. Announced on March 6, 2026, this project represents the company’s first major solar venture in the nation and a pivotal move toward diversifying El Salvador’s energy sources.

Project Scope and Energy Output

With an investment projected between €40 and €50 million, the Sonsonate solar plant is set to become a cornerstone of the region’s clean energy infrastructure. Spanning an area of approximately 100 hectares in western El Salvador, the facility is engineered to generate around 100 GWh of power each year upon completion. This output is substantial enough to meet the annual electricity demands of roughly 50,000 Salvadoran homes, directly bolstering the national grid’s capacity and stability.

Advanced Technology for Maximum Efficiency

To optimize energy generation, the Sonsonate project will deploy state-of-the-art solar technology. The installation will feature ground-mounted bifacial solar panels, which capture sunlight from both sides, coupled with single-axis trackers that follow the sun’s trajectory throughout the day. This combination significantly increases the plant’s efficiency and overall energy yield compared to traditional fixed-panel systems, ensuring maximum output from the region’s abundant solar resources. Construction is on an accelerated schedule, with the plant expected to be fully operational by the first quarter of 2027.

Supporting National Climate Goals and Local Economy

This development is a key contributor to El Salvador’s National Energy Policy, which aims to install 1.3 GW of solar capacity by 2030. By displacing fossil fuel generation, the plant is projected to prevent approximately 50,000 tons of CO₂ emissions annually, based on IPCC emission factors for the local grid. The project has secured the necessary environmental approvals from the Ministry of Environment (MARN), underscoring its commitment to sustainable practices.

Beyond its environmental contributions, the solar farm is a powerful engine for local economic growth. The construction phase is expected to generate over 200 jobs, while the ongoing operations and maintenance will provide an additional 20 permanent positions. This initiative aligns with the strategy of El Salvador’s Comisión Ejecutiva Hidroeléctrica del Río Lempa (CEL) to foster technical skills and create employment opportunities through strategic energy projects. For more details on the company’s global initiatives, visit the official Enel Green Power website.

Sources

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