Metlen Energy & Metals has secured three EPC contracts in Chile for over 2.5 GWh of BESS and 190.5 MWp solar PV. The projects aim for completion by Q1 2026 and include the Mesembria project with 1,607 MWh capacity. The importance of BESS alongside solar PV has been underscored, but financial and regulatory challenges remain.
Greek renewables developer Metlen Energy & Metals has secured three engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts in Chile, amounting to over 2.5 GWh of battery energy storage systems (BESS) and an additional 190.5 MWp of solar photovoltaic capacity. These projects are expected to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2026.
Furthermore, Metlen is developing its own energy portfolio in Chile with the Mesembria project, which will comprise a BESS capacity of 1,607 MWh, targeted for completion by the fourth quarter of 2025. A recent report from Wood Mackenzie underscores the burgeoning solar-plus-storage projects in both Brazil and Chile, driven by increasing curtailment and transmission challenges in those regions.
The co-location of battery energy storage with solar PV in Chile is deemed critical for both operating systems and future developments. Alejandro McDonough, business development manager for Americas sales at Wärtsilä Energy Storage and Optimisation, noted this necessity during discussions about the BESS market in Chile. During the Energy Storage Summit Latin America event in October 2024, the technology’s importance in alleviating the significant curtailment issues faced by Chile was emphasized, noting a record 6 TWh of curtailed solar PV and wind capacity in the past year.
Despite these advancements, uncertainties exist, particularly regarding financial concerns and regulatory frameworks. There is a pressing need for clear regulations and policies to facilitate the growth of BESS throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, enabling the market to reach its full potential.
In summary, Metlen Energy & Metals has secured significant EPC contracts for battery energy storage systems and solar capacity in Chile, reflecting a growing trend in sustainable energy solutions. The co-location of BESS with solar PV is increasingly viewed as essential, particularly following recent curtailment reports. However, financial and regulatory uncertainties must be addressed to sustain growth in the BESS sector across Latin America and the Caribbean.
Original Source: www.energy-storage.news
