Chilean Energy Minister Andrés Rebolledo presented the ambitious plan for evolution towards renewable energies of its country, where the goal is for the nation to have 70% of this type of supply by 2050. This objective places Chile as one of the leaders in energy transition in Latin America, marking a milestone in the use of natural resources to generate clean energy.
The state has ensured that: “Over the past four years, the country has embarked on an energy transition that has changed the generation matrix, making it more sustainable, clean, economical and environmentally friendly.”This change in mentality has been driven by both internal and external factors, including the significant decrease in the costs of renewable technologies and access to international financing for such projects.
The rise of renewable energy in Chile
Chile has become a leader in Latin America in Non-Conventional Renewable Energy (NCRE). Currently, 17% of the country's total capacity corresponds to clean energy. It is expected that by 2020, 20% of the energy matrix will be completely renewable, a goal five years ahead of initial estimates.
ERNC includes technologies such as geothermal, solar, wind, tidal and hydroelectric plantsThese technologies are not only more environmentally friendly, but also allow Chile to significantly reduce CO2 emissions, helping the country meet its international climate commitments.
In March 2014, these energies represented only 7% of the total matrix, which means that in less than a decade they have made significant progress. By 2017, the figure had already reached 15%, and continues to grow thanks to both national and foreign investment.
This growth has been possible thanks to initiatives such as the Deep energy reform, which responds to public policies designed jointly by public and private actors. Thanks to these efforts, the energy sector has attracted investments and has managed to drastically reduce energy prices.
The impact on Chile's international image
Chile's Executive Director of Image, Myriam Gómez, said that having a matrix focused on renewable energies strengthens the country's image. According to the report by Ernst & Young In 2017, Chile ranked sixth worldwide among the nations with the greatest opportunities in the development of renewable energy.
Chile's leadership is not only based on the number of projects, but also on their quality and sustainability. This has also had a positive impact on the ability to attract foreign investment. With clear and stable rules in the environmental field, Chile has established itself as a safe destination for investors interested in clean energy.
Argentina and its movement towards renewable energy
Although Argentina had remained indifferent to the renewable revolution, in recent years it has begun to promote solar energy, especially in regions such as Jujuy, where a 100% solar energy model has been implemented. The country hopes to reach 8% of its energy matrix through renewable sources in the short term, a significant advance for a nation that had traditionally depended on other forms of energy.
Mexico moves forward with large-scale solar plants
Mexico has also been part of this revolution with the installation of large-scale solar plants such as Aura Solar I, which has reduced emissions by 60 thousand tons of CO2 annually. The plant, which is located in Baja California Sur, is one of the most ambitious projects in Latin America and shows how solar energy can be an effective solution to the climate crisis.
Peru and its commitment to rural solar energy
Peru, for its part, has focused its efforts on bringing energy solutions to more than 2,2 million citizens living in rural areas. Through initiatives such as the installation of solar panels, the country hopes to improve the quality of life of its population while reducing its carbon footprint.
Panama, Guatemala and other countries in the region
In Panama, several companies participated in the tender for the construction of solar plants, which represented an investment of more than 120 million dollars. Guatemala, on the other hand, has stood out with its photovoltaic plant that can generate 5 MW of power.
In central America, El Salvador y Honduras They are also making progress with solar energy projects that seek to improve the energy stability of the region. Honduras, in particular, is a leader in solar energy in Central America and the third country in Latin America in terms of growth in the sector.
Costa Rica, known for its focus on clean energy, has invested more than $1.700 billion in renewable energy projects in recent years. This country has shown that it is possible to achieve high levels of economic growth without sacrificing the environment.
Throughout Latin America, the trend towards renewable energy is clear. Countries in the region, led by Chile and Brazil, have shown that it is possible to build a sustainable energy future based on the use of natural resources. With continued investment and the right policies, the continent is well positioned to be a global leader in the fight against climate change.
The commitment to renewable energy in countries like Chile is not only a question of environmental sustainability, but also of energy independence and economic competitiveness. The reforms and efforts made by Latin American nations are laying the foundations for a competitive, ecological and economically viable energy market.