AES Andes SA, a utility company in Latin America has officially launched the commercial operations of its Andes Solar IV power complex. This facility includes 211 MW of photovoltaic panels and a 130-MW battery energy storage system (BESS) in the heart of the Atacama Desert in the Antofagasta region of Chile.
Andes Solar IV Power Complex Features Largest Battery System
This power complex introduces 211 MW of photovoltaic panels and 130 MW of lithium battery energy storage for 5 hours, making it the largest operational battery system in Latin America. This technology is undoubtedly a key solution for alleviating transmission congestion in the National Electric System, as it enables solar energy to be stored during the day and released into the grid at night when demand peaks.
Andes Solar IV Power Complex Features Largest Battery System array (image collected)
“The entry into commercial operation of Andes Solar IV is a source of pride for the company and shows that we continue to be the undisputed leader in battery-based storage systems. We were pioneers in Chile in implementing this technology and today our renewable hub in Antofagasta has the largest system in Latin America, combining 667 MW of solar with 259 MW of batteries. Our investment plan includes having more than 1,600 MW of operational batteries by 2027 in Chile. This is a concrete demonstration of AES Andes’ commitment to continue investing in the country, innovating and contributing responsibly to the energy transition.” said Javier Dib, CEO of AES Andes.
AES Andes Boosts Renewable Strategy with Major Investments
Since launching its strategy in 2018, AES Andes has made significant progress in reducing the emissions intensity of its portfolio, investing over $1.8 billion to add 1,504 MW of wind and solar capacity, establishing itself as the leader in battery-based storage systems in Latin America. In Chile, the company has 572 MW of renewable capacity under construction and a portfolio of projects in advanced development totalling over 1,300 MW with more than $1.9 billion earmarked for investment between 2024 and 2027.
Additionally, in September, AES Andes reported that three new projects had entered environmental processing, collectively representing over 1,700 MW of photovoltaic energy and 2,400 MW of battery capacity. This makes AES Andes the company with the largest portfolio of renewable projects in Chile, with all projects having their Environmental Qualification Resolutions approved or in the approval process.
AES Andes: Leading Power Generation in South America
AES Andes generates and sells energy in Chile, Colombia and Argentina. The company operates a total of 5,657MW across South America along with a diverse portfolio of renewable energy projects in development. As one of the region's leading power generation companies, it has a varied portfolio that includes hydroelectric, wind, solar, energy storage, natural gas and coal.
In Chile, AES Andes and its subsidiaries manage 3,885 MW which includes 1,645 MW of thermal power, 771 MW of hydro, 431 MW of wind, 667 MW of solar photovoltaic and 371 MW of battery energy storage systems, as well as seawater desalination plants and transmission lines.