In a landmark event held in the Region of Antofagasta, Chilean President Gabriel Boric led the inauguration of the BESS Coya, Latin America’s largest solar battery storage system. This significant development, spearheaded by Engie Chile, is situated in María Elena and represents a substantial leap forward in the country's renewable energy initiatives.
BESS Coya is not just a facility; it's a pioneer in the energy sector with an impressive installed capacity of 139 MW and a storage capability of 638 MWh. Its operation is expected to prevent the emission of more than 65,000 tons of carbon dioxide annually, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
The system uses lithium batteries to harness and store the renewable energy generated by the nearby PV Coya solar park, which has a capacity of 180 MWac. Distributed across 232 containers that work with 58 inverters, the system ensures a continuous energy supply capable of supporting approximately 100,000 homes. This setup enables the plant to deliver an average of 200 GWh per year, contributing significantly to the region's green energy supply.
During the ceremony, President Boric emphasized the critical role of such projects in Chile’s energy strategy, remarking on the nation's commitment to decarbonization and addressing the global climate crisis. "This facility is another key component of our extensive energy infrastructure and visibly demonstrates Chile's commitment to a renewable future," he stated.
Engie Group CEO, Catherine MacGregor, also commented on the project, highlighting Chile's ambitions in the renewable sector. "Chile is set to become a key player in the global green energy market, and Engie is dedicated to supporting this transformation with substantial investments in renewable energy production," she explained.
The inauguration of the BESS Coya facility marks a pivotal moment for Chile's renewable energy landscape. It stands as a testament to the potential of public-private partnerships and the positive impacts these collaborations can have on the environment and society. As Chile continues to lead in the renewable energy sector, the BESS Coya project is a beacon of innovation and sustainability, promising a cleaner, greener future for all.
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