Atlas Renewable Energy and COPEC unveil BESS del Desierto project in Chile
Atlas Renewable Energy, a global leader in renewable energy solutions, has announced a significant step forward in Chile’s clean energy landscape through a landmark power purchase agreement (PPA) with COPEC, one of Chile’s leading energy companies. The agreement, facilitated through COPEC’s energy commercializer EMOAC, spans 15 years and heralds the launch of one of the largest battery energy storage systems (BESS) in both Chile and Latin America. Named BESS del Desierto, this pioneering project is set to have an installed capacity of 200 MW, with a storage capacity of 800 MWh, positioning it at the forefront of energy storage innovation in the region.
Located adjacent to Atlas’ Sol del Desierto solar plant in the commune of Maria Elena, Antofagasta region, BESS del Desierto is strategically designed to harness solar energy during peak daylight hours and redistribute it to the grid during periods of high demand. This capability is expected to reintegrate approximately 280 GWh of renewable energy per year back into the national grid, mitigating the curtailment of solar-generated power and enhancing the stability and reliability of electricity supply throughout the region.
The project’s innovative design as a standalone battery system underscores its role as an autonomous solution for energy storage, allowing for the efficient and reliable supply of electricity. This development is not only a testament to Atlas Renewable Energy’s pioneering spirit but also reflects the company’s broader commitment to spearheading sustainable energy solutions across Latin America.
Carlos Barrera, CEO of Atlas Renewable Energy, highlighted the significance of the BESS del Desierto project, stating, “This deal marks our expansion into battery energy storage technology, establishing Atlas as an early adopter in Latin America. It demonstrates our commitment to innovative energy solutions and strengthens our position as a leader in sustainable technology for the region’s energy transition.”
Vannia Toro, General Manager of EMOAC, also emphasized the project’s national impact, noting, “This agreement aims to address a fundamental issue at the national level, specifically the inappropriate disposal of NCRE. Our approach revolves around innovation, adaptation, and the integration of technology. We firmly believe that this represents a significant solution to the existing challenges within the system and marks another crucial stride towards our dedicated commitment to energy transition.”
The BESS del Desierto project represents a significant leap forward in the utilization of advanced solar resources and the delivery of customized energy solutions in Chile and Latin America. By pioneering the use of standalone battery energy storage systems, Atlas Renewable Energy is not only contributing to the region’s energy transformation but also setting a new standard for innovation and sustainability in the energy sector.