New solar energy projects take root in Chile

Chile approves solar energy power plants

Two new solar energy plants have been approved by the Environmental Evaluation Service of Chile. These facilities will boast of a combined solar energy capacity of 181 megawatts and are expected to help reduce the country's reliance on fossil-fuels to some degree. The new power plants are likely to begin construction by the end of the year and may begin producing electrical power at some point in the summer of 2014.

Plants boast of a combined 181MW capacity

Both solar energy plants are being developed by Igenostrum, a company that specializes in clean power development, and will be located in the Antofogasta region. Construction on the new power plants is likely to create several temporary jobs, helping boost the local economy. Permanent jobs will be opened when the plants come online. The solar energy plants will also serve as stepping stones in Chile's overarching sustainability goal.

Chile continues to work toward sustainability goals

Chile intends to receive no less than 20% of its electrical power from renewable sources by 2020. The country has made relatively modest progress toward this goal, but it has become one of the most promising markets for solar energy in the world. The Chilean government has been engaging energy developers, introducing new policies and incentives that are attractive to companies that are seeking to expand into new markets. As such, solar energy developers from around the world have been flocking to Chile in order to find some degree of success.

New solar energy projects forming throughout the country

The government has recently approved another 108 megawatts worth of solar energy project that will take root throughout the country. These projects will be used to power homes and businesses and are likely to help consumers grow more comfortable with the concept of renewable energy. This comfort may eventually turn into adoption, especially when people are further exposed to the potential economic benefits that solar energy represents.