Regional/Chile
Most of Chile’s operational renewable energy projects are still very small scale, such as the 2MW Alto Baguales wind park in the far southern region of Aysén (Credit: Víctor Seguel, courtesy of Corfo).
Sustainable, came to a similar conclusion. Its report argues that Chile must see renewable energy as more than just a complementary measure to the main grid, and that more leadership – and stronger incentives – are needed.
study estimates that 28.1% of energy could come from renewable sources, in a “best-case” scenario, by that same year. The study also recommends several other actions that if taken would benefit the renewable energy sector in Chile:
Looking forward, the study estimates that using a conservative model, Chile could receive 16.8% of its energy from renewable sources by 2025, with mini-hydropower the leading source. However, if geothermal and wind energy are used more aggressively, the
■ A large round of feasibility studies needs to
be funded to map out the resources available at a national scale; ■ The potential of the human capital at a local level needs to be evaluated and
developed. For example, determine where and to what degree the scientific, operational, and technical know-how exists, and then improve on it. Also study the impact that renewable energies could have on employment and job development; ■ Ways to increase energy efficiency on all levels in Chile needs to be researched; ■ Investments in energy infrastructure need to be incorporated into the tariff scheme. Find ways to encourage greater investment in both renewable energy and energy efficiency on the part of energy companies.
Energy sources in Chile Energy Source Renewable
SIC - Central Electricity Grid (MW) 312.7
% of total SIC
SING – Northern Electricity Grid (MW)
% of total SING
Total Installed power (MW)
3.43
12.8
0.36
325.5
run of river hydro over 20MW
1377.3
15.1
0
0
1377.3
Dam
3393.4
37.22
0
0
3393.4
Coal
837.7
9.19
1205.6
33.47
2043.3
75
0.82
271.8
7.55
346.8 582.9
Oil/Diesel Dual (Diesel gas/ gas IFO180) Natural gas Total Installed power
582.9
6.39
0
0
2539.30
27.85
2111.7
58.62
4651
9118.3
100
3601.9
100
12720.2
renewable energy focus
January/February 2009
81