Sonnedix is playing a role in fulfilling Chile’s renewable energy targets of 100% renewables in the country’s energy mix by 2040. The Sonnedix Atacama Solar project’s purpose is to generate electricity using solar energy – a safe, proven, environmentally friendly form of renewable energy.
Sonnedix began operations in Chile with the Pica Pilot, a 0.6MW proof-of-feasibility plant, that went live in November 2015. This was followed by St. Julia (3.63MW) in April 2016 and Chuchiñi (3.25MW) in July 2016. In 2019, we began the construction of the 170 MW Sonnedix Atacama solar plant, completed in 2020 and injecting energy into the Chilean’s National Electric System since January 30, 2021.
We are contributing to the development of the Province of Tamarugal and its solar identity by building and operating the Atacama solar PV plant that will generate clean, sustainable and renewable energy for Chile and the region.
The project is located in the municipality of Pica, an area with the highest irradiation in the world, which means it has excellent solar energy potential. This 450-hectare solar PV plant is powered by around half a million ultra-high efficiency solar panels and 38 central inverters, and includes a 220 Kv, 46.38 km-long, transmission line which connects the project's substation with the National Electric System in the Lagunas substation. Sonnedix Atacama Solar can contribute to the power grid regulation, providing balance services to the grid, helping bring stability and reliability to the Electric System.
With an investment of over USD 180M the plant started construction in June 2019. This 450-hectare solar plant is powered by around 500,000 solar mono panels and 48 central inverters, and it connects to the grid through two substations. Sonnedix Atacama will produce around 470Gwh of clean electricity annually, capable of powering more than 100,000 Chilean homes and avoiding around 200,000 tons of CO2 per year.
In addition to that, this project allows Sonnedix to fulfil its social citizen role, giving back to the local communities through our Atacama Community Investment Fund.
Training and hiring: Provide employment opportunities for people in localities next to the project
Education: Promote renewable energy studies in schools and high schools
Research: To work with universities to support research and develop renewable energy projects.
Any concerns or questions about the project, please get in touch.
Email: inform@sonnedix.com Tel: +56 2 2512 1587