Zelestra, a global leader in renewable energy and multi-technology solutions, has launched its 144 MW La Unión photovoltaic (PV) plant in Montería, Colombia. This project marks a crucial step in the country’s energy transition and underscores Zelestra’s commitment to fostering a cleaner, more sustainable future.
La Unión PV Plant to Power 132,000 Homes in Colombia
With an investment exceeding $200 million, the PV plant spans 230 hectares and comprises 220,960 solar panels with an installed capacity of 144 megawatts. Built over a year and a half, the facility can power more than 132,000 homes and benefit approximately 430,000 people.
“La Unión PV plant is a tangible example of how Zelestra, with its fully integrated structure, can execute renewable energy projects from start to finish, ensuring the highest quality and efficiency. We are committed to decarbonisation and Colombia plays a key role in this transition,” said Leo Moreno, Global CEO of Zelestra.
Last November, IDB Invest and Bancolombia announced an agreement to finance two solar projects by Zelestra (previously known as Solarpack)—the La Unión PV plant and the 108 MW La Mata solar project—for a combined total of $134.5 million.
Solarpack was one of the companies awarded contracts in Colombia’s most recent long-term renewable energy auction, securing a total capacity of 1,123 MWh/day. These contracts, which span 15 years, were granted at a weighted average allocation price of 155.8 pesos/kWh (approximately $0.041/kWh).
“Córdoba has adequate solar resources and topography to carry out this type of project, and it also has good road and electrical infrastructure to allow for the project’s construction and subsequent evacuation of the generated energy,” said Alejandro Ospina, country manager of Zelestra.
Zelestra Creates 1,276 Local Jobs, Boosting Development
The project has generated 1,276 local jobs, demonstrating Zelestra’s dedication to the region’s economic and social growth. Zelestra has established itself as a leading renewable energy provider in Latin America, with plans to develop 6 GW across the region.
Zelestra’s project drives local economic growth while advancing renewable energy in Latin America.
“It’s not just about constructing energy infrastructure; it’s about involving the community at every stage of the process to generate a positive, long-term impact,” said Alejandro Ospina, Country Manager of Zelestra Colombia.
“La Unión PV plant symbolizes collaboration and collective effort. We believe this is just the beginning of a long-term relationship with this community. Through this initiative, we reflect our commitment to ESG principles and our mission to build a carbon-free future,” added José Luis García, CEO LATAM of Zelestra.
PV Plant to Cut CO2 Emissions by 123,346 Tons Annually
The La Unión PV plant is a significant project in the fight against climate change. Its strategic location in a region with high solar potential and favorable weather, combined with meticulous environmental planning, minimizes its impact on the natural environment while preventing 123,346 tons of CO2 emissions annually—the equivalent of planting 12.3 million trees.
This project marks just the beginning of Zelestra’s journey in Colombia, where the company aims to be a catalyst for change toward a cleaner, more prosperous future. As it solidifies its role as a strategic partner in the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy, Zelestra will continue seeking new investment opportunities to expand its portfolio and help achieve national climate goals.
Zelestra boasts a portfolio of 25 GW of carbon-free projects across 13 countries. As a vertically integrated company, it focuses on the development, commercialization, construction, and operation of large-scale renewable energy initiatives. With a global team of 953 professionals, Zelestra is backed by EQT—one of the world’s largest fund managers, overseeing more than 223 billion euros in assets.
