Global multi-technology solutions provider Zelestra has officially inaugurated its La Unión photovoltaic plant in Montería, Colombia, a landmark 144 MW project poised to accelerate the nation’s transition to renewable energy. The launch signifies a major milestone for both the company and Colombia’s decarbonization goals, reinforcing the country’s strategic role in a cleaner energy future.
Project Scope and Impact of Zelestra Inaugurates 144 MW La Unión PV Plant in Montería
Representing an investment of over $200 million, the La Unión facility spans 230 hectares and is equipped with 220,960 solar panels. Following a construction period of a year and a half, the plant is now capable of generating enough clean electricity to power more than 132,000 homes, directly benefiting an estimated 430,000 people. On an environmental scale, the plant is projected to prevent 123,346 tons of CO2 emissions annually, which is comparable to the ecological benefit of planting 12.3 million trees.
Leo Moreno, Global CEO of Zelestra, commented on the achievement, stating, “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.”
Economic Development and Community Engagement after Zelestra Inaugurates 144 MW La Unión PV Plant in Montería
The construction and development of the La Unión plant have provided a significant local economic boost, creating 1,276 jobs in the region. This commitment to community integration is a core part of Zelestra’s strategy. “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,” explained Alejandro Ospina, Country Manager of Zelestra Colombia.
Ospina also highlighted the region’s suitability for solar development: “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.”
Strategic Financing and Future Outlook for Zelestra Inaugurates 144 MW La Unión PV Plant in Montería
The project’s financial underpinning was strengthened last November when IDB Invest and Bancolombia finalized a $134.5 million financing agreement for La Unión and Zelestra’s 108 MW La Mata solar project. Zelestra, previously known as Solarpack, was a successful bidder in Colombia’s most recent long-term energy auction, securing 15-year contracts for 1,123 MWh/day at a competitive price of approximately $0.041/kWh.
As a leading provider of renewable energy in Latin America with plans to develop 6 GW, Zelestra views this project as a foundation for a lasting partnership. “La Unión PV plant symbolizes collaboration and collective effort. We believe this is just the beginning of a long-term relationship with this community,” said José Luis García, CEO LATAM of Zelestra. He added that the initiative reflects the company’s “commitment to ESG principles and our mission to build a carbon-free future.”
With a global team of 953 professionals and a 25 GW portfolio of carbon-free projects across 13 countries, the vertically integrated company is backed by EQT, a major global fund manager. Zelestra aims to continue expanding its investments in Colombia, solidifying its role as a key partner in the nation’s journey toward its climate objectives.
Sources for Zelestra Inaugurates 144 MW La Unión PV Plant in Montería
- Zelestra inaugurated the 144 MW La Unión photovoltaic plant in …
- Consulta pública de evaluaciones ambientales
- Solarpack Completes Grid Connection of 144 MW La Unión Solar …
- Zelestra Connects 108 MW La Mata Solar Plant to Colombian Grid …
- Colombia Inaugurates New $200 Million Solar Par – Knowledge
- 144 MW La Unión solar plant inaugurated in Colombia – PV Magazine
- Solarpack – pv magazine International
- Inauguran en Colombia la planta solar La Unión, de 144 MW
