Peru’s Expansion in Solar Energy Capacity
Peru is making significant strides toward its goal of adding 500 MW of new solar energy capacity by the end of 2024. In the first half of the year, the country advanced its renewable energy ambitions by connecting two new solar projects to the national grid—adding a combined 115.55 MW from facilities in the Cajamarca and Moquegua departments.
In February, the Carhuaquero solar power plant began operations in Cajamarca with a capacity of 0.55 MW. The facility, located in the districts of Llama and Catache in the Chota and Santa Cruz provinces, required a $400,000 investment to become operational.
Image: Collected
Also in February, the Clemesà solar power plant commenced operations in the Mariscal Nieto province of the Moquegua Department. With a capacity of 115 MW, the plant spans 270 hectares and features over 220,000 bifacial solar panels, each generating 525 Wp. The project represented an investment of $81 million.
“The commercial operation of Clemesà ensures a stable supply of renewable energy for economic activities outlined in our commercial agreements. It also signifies our commitment to being a key partner to industries driving the nation, providing sustainable, dependable, and cost-effective energy solutions,” said Eugenio Calderón, Head of Power Generation, Perú.
Investment and Acquisition in Renewable Energy
In May, Actis acquired the Clemesà solar project from Enel Generación Perú and CompañÃa Energética Veracruz for $1.3 billion. This transaction included various other renewable energy assets, underscoring Peru’s attractiveness for renewable energy investments.
Enel Generación Perú holds a prominent position in the Peruvian electricity sector, with an installed capacity of 2.3 gigawatts (GW) that accounts for 16.8% of the nation’s total available power.
The company is also a leader in renewable energy generation in Peru, with approximately 600 MW from solar and wind sources and a robust portfolio of renewable projects exceeding 12,000 MW.
Enel Generación Perú began commercial operation of ClemesÃ, consolidating the largest solar hub in the country.
Future Prospects and Projected Capacity
The Matarani solar power plant, scheduled to begin operations in Arequipa, will add another 97 MWp to Peru’s solar capacity. Located in the Mollendo Desert—an area known for its high solar radiation—this plant is expected to generate 260 GWh annually and play a key role in the country’s renewable energy future.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Peru had 287 MW of installed photovoltaic power at the end of 2023. With current and planned projects, the country is on track to have nearly 500 MW of operational solar capacity by the end of 2024.
These recent project integrations and planned expansions underscore Peru’s progress in solar energy, positioning the country as an emerging leader in renewables within South America.
