Uruguay has announced plans to launch a competitive bidding process for 200 MW of solar power capacity in 2025. This initiative, led by the Ministry of Industry, Energy, and Mining (MIEM), aims to expand the country’s renewable energy infrastructure by integrating photovoltaic projects into the national grid. For more details, you can visit Uruguay Solar News Archives.
Framework for the Uruguay solar auction 2025
The announcement was made by Walter Verri, Deputy Minister of Industry, Energy, and Mining, during a press conference. Verri emphasized that the auction will be open to all interested parties, both local and international. This approach is designed to encourage broad participation from energy sector players, thereby fostering a competitive environment.
The 200 MW of solar power capacity will be structured into three distinct projects, each with a capacity of 50 MW, 50 MW, and 100 MW. This segmentation is intended to attract a diverse range of bidders and ensure that the projects are manageable and scalable.
The MIEM is currently in the process of drafting the tender documents. These documents will outline the technical and financial requirements for the auction, as well as the evaluation criteria for bids. The Ministry has announced that the tender documents will be made available for public consultation by April 2025, thereby allowing stakeholders to review and provide feedback.
Integration of Uruguay solar auction 2025 with national energy strategy
The solar auction aligns with Uruguay’s broader energy strategy, which is focused on diversifying the country’s renewable energy sources. The country has already made significant strides in wind energy and is now turning its attention to solar power. For more information, visit Uruguay solar power 2025.
The National Administration of Power Plants and Electrical Transmissions (UTE) has been a key player in Uruguay’s energy sector. In December 2023, UTE launched an international tender for 120 MW of solar power, divided into three blocks of 40 MW each. This auction was part of UTE’s strategy to increase its renewable energy capacity and reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
The results of UTE’s December 2023 auction were announced in April 2024. Three companies were awarded contracts to develop solar projects in the northwestern part of the country. The winning bids were submitted by Enersa S.A., a Uruguayan company; Nativus, a subsidiary of the German company Enerparc; and Renergetica, an Italian firm. The awarded contracts are structured as power purchase agreements (PPAs), with a duration of 20 years.
Uruguay solar auction 2025 and the country’s renewable energy commitment
Uruguay has positioned itself as a leader in renewable energy in Latin America. The country has achieved nearly 100% renewable energy generation, with wind, hydropower, and biomass playing significant roles. The upcoming solar auction is part of Uruguay’s ongoing efforts to maintain its renewable energy leadership and reduce its carbon footprint further. For a comprehensive overview, see Uruguay solar capacity to Expand by 200 MW.
The 200 MW solar auction is expected to attract significant interest from both domestic and international energy companies. The competitive bidding process will ensure that the selected projects are cost-effective and technologically advanced, thereby contributing to Uruguay’s energy security and environmental sustainability.
With the tender documents set to be released in April 2025, the MIEM is preparing to launch a transparent and inclusive auction process. The public consultation period will allow stakeholders to provide input and ensure that the final tender documents meet the highest standards of fairness and transparency.
Uruguay’s approach to renewable energy development serves as a model for other countries in the region. The government’s commitment to expanding solar power capacity through a competitive bidding process underscores its dedication to sustainable energy policies and long-term environmental goals.
As Uruguay prepares for its 200 MW solar auction in 2025, the country continues to solidify its position as a global leader in renewable energy.
