Metlen Energy & Metals has secured EPC contracts for over 2.5GWh of BESS and 190.5MWp of solar PV in Chile, with projects expected to finish by Q1 2026. The company is also developing the Mesembria project, slated for Q4 2025 completion. However, financial uncertainties and lack of regulations may hinder BESS expansion in the region.
Metlen Energy & Metals, a Greek renewable energy developer, has secured three engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts for battery energy storage systems (BESS) in Chile. These contracts involve over 2.5GWh of battery storage and 190.5MWp of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity. All projects are slated for completion by the first quarter of 2026.
In addition to the EPC contracts, Metlen is developing the Mesembria project in Chile, featuring a BESS capacity of 1,607MWh, which is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2025. A recent report from Wood Mackenzie has noted the surge in solar-plus-storage projects in Brazil and Chile due to various curtailment and transmission challenges, projecting 160GW of solar installations in South America by 2034.
The combination of BESS with solar PV in Chile has become essential, as stated by Alejandro McDonough of Wärtsilä Energy Storage and Optimisation. This integration is crucial for managing operational projects and addressing future developments. During the Energy Storage Summit Latin America in October 2024, the importance of BESS was reiterated, especially in mitigating curtailment issues; recently, 6TWh of solar PV and wind capacity was curtailed, a record high, more than double from the preceding year.
Additionally, uncertainties around financial models remain a barrier to the full expansion of BESS in Chile. Many Latin American and Caribbean countries still lack the necessary regulations and policies to support the growth of battery energy storage systems, which is vital for advancing renewable energy initiatives in these regions.
Metlen’s contracts for 2.5GWh of BESS and associated solar capacity underscore the growing demand for integrated energy solutions in Chile. While the BESS market faces regulatory and financial uncertainties, the anticipated growth in solar-plus-storage indicates a significant opportunity for renewable energy advancements in Latin America.
Original Source: www.energy-storage.news
