Metlen Secures 2.5 GWh BESS EPC Contracts in Chile
Metlen Energy & Metals has secured three EPC contracts for over 2.5 GWh of battery energy storage systems and 190.5 MWp of solar PV capacity in Chile, with project completion expected by Q1 2026. Additionally, Metlen is developing the Mesembria project, which will have a BESS capacity of 1,607 MWh. The co-location of storage and solar is deemed crucial for addressing curtailment issues in Chile.
Metlen Energy & Metals, a Greek renewable energy developer, has successfully acquired three engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts in Chile, amounting to over 2.5 GWh of battery energy storage systems along with 190.5 MWp of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity. These projects are anticipated to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2026.
In addition to the aforementioned EPC contracts, Metlen is advancing its own initiatives in Chile, specifically the Mesembria project, which will feature a BESS capacity of 1,607 MWh and is scheduled for completion by the fourth quarter of 2025.
A report from Wood Mackenzie underscores the rise of solar-plus-storage developments in both Brazil and Chile, stemming from increasing curtailment and transmission challenges. It estimates approximately 160 GW of solar PV installations in South America by 2034.
The combination of BESS with solar PV in Chile is considered essential for addressing the operational needs of existing projects and anticipated developments. Alejandro McDonough of Wärtsilä ES&O remarked on the necessity of this co-location during a recent examination of the BESS landscape in Chile.
Additionally, at the recent Energy Storage Summit Latin America held in October 2024, the technology was proclaimed pivotal in mitigating Chile’s escalating curtailment issues, where 2024 experienced a record high of 6 TWh of curtailed solar PV and wind capacity.
Nonetheless, uncertainties persist regarding the financial framework necessary for the expansion of BESS in Chile and the greater Latin American region. The lack of regulatory and policy support for BESS remains a significant barrier to its growth across Latin America and the Caribbean.
In summary, Metlen Energy & Metals has made significant strides in Chile by securing three EPC contracts for large battery energy storage systems and solar PV capacity. The Mesembria project further demonstrates Metlen’s commitment to renewable energy growth in the region. The rise of solar-plus-storage projects aligns with increasing demands and challenges in energy curtailment, although financial and regulatory hurdles still need to be addressed to fully capitalize on the potential of BESS in Latin America.
Original Source: www.energy-storage.news
