ENGIE Chile continues to accelerate its decarbonization strategy with the start-up of the BESS Capricornio battery system, located in the Antofagasta region of Chile. Antofagasta region. This infrastructure will allow the storage of up to 264 MWh of solar energy generated by the Capricornio Solar Plant, operating with an output of 48 MW during a 5-hour continuous cycle.
BESS Capricorn stores solar power for thousands of homes
BESS Capricornio consists of 96 battery containers and represents a key solution for strengthening the flexibility of the national electricity system. With this commissioning, ENGIE can supply approximately 11,500 homes with solar energy. stored solar energy stored energy, while avoiding the annual emission of around 25,833 tons of CO₂. According to the company, this is equivalent to taking some 8,800 conventional vehicles off the road.
This new asset adds to the projects already activated by the company during 2025, such as BESS Tamaya and the Kallpa Wind Farm. BESS Capricornio is the third system put into operation this year and consolidates a total storage capacity of 263 MW for ENGIE in Chile. The company’s goal is to reach 3.5 GW of installed capacity by 2027, with more than 60% based on renewables and storage.
ENGIE strengthens leadership in energy storage
Juan Villavicencio, Director of Renewable Energies and Batteries at ENGIE Chile, highlighted that the storage systems such as Capricornio systems such as Capricornio are essential to facilitate greater integration of renewable sources. Globally, the ENGIE Group already has 5 GW of capacity in operation or under construction, positioning itself as one of the world leaders in this technology.
The project required an investment of close to US$73 million and is part of ENGIE’s strategy to strengthen its presence in northern Chile. Its location in Antofagasta allows direct synergy with solar sources in the area, increasing efficiency and reducing transmission losses.
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Source and photo: ENGIE Chile
