Zelestra, a global leader in renewable energy and multi-technology solutions has officially launched its 144 MW La Unión photovoltaic (PV) plant in Montería, Colombia. This achievement marks a crucial advancement in the country's energy transition and underscores Zelestra’s dedication 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 encompasses 230 hectares and features 220,960 solar panels with an installed capacity of 144 megawatts. This facility can power over 132,000 homes, benefiting approximately 430,000 people. Construction took a year and a half to complete.
”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.
In November of last year, IDB Invest and Bancolombia announced an agreement to finance two solar projects by Zelestra—previously known as Solarpack: the La Unión PV plant project and the 108 MW La Mata solar project, providing 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 conditions to allow the construction of the project 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, showcasing 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.
“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 has set a benchmark in the fight against climate change. Its strategic location in a region with high solar potential and favourable weather conditions, coupled with meticulous environmental planning, has minimized its impact on the natural environment while preventing 123,346 tons of CO2 emissions annually— equivalent to planting 12.3 million trees.
This marks just the beginning of Zelestra's journey in Colombia, where it aims to be a catalyst for change towards a cleaner and more prosperous future. The company seeks to solidify its role as a strategic partner in Colombia's transition to a low-carbon economy. Zelestra will continue to seek new investment opportunities in the country to expand its project portfolio and help achieve national climate goals.
Zelestra boasts a portfolio of 25 GW of carbon-free projects across 13 countries and is a vertically integrated company focused on the development, commercialization, construction and operation of large-scale renewable energy initiatives. With a global team of 953 professionals, Zelestra is supported by EQT—one of the world's largest fund managers overseeing more than 223 billion euros in assets.