ENGIE Chile has put BESS Arica into commercial operation, an energy storage system that adds new capacity to the National Electric System and strengthens the integration of renewable energies in the Arica and Parinacota Region. The authorization was issued by the National Electric Coordinator on June 25, allowing the facility to officially begin operations.
Infrastructure to better utilize renewable energy
The project has an installed capacity of 25 MW and 150 MWh and represented an investment of approximately US$50 million. Its function is to store energy generated during hours of peak solar production to deliver it later during periods of higher electricity demand.
In this way, the system contributes to a more efficient use of available renewable generation and improves the operational stability of the power grid in northern Chile.
Stand-alone system connected to the Arica Substation
BESS Arica operates as a stand-alone facility, connected directly to the Arica Substation, also managed by ENGIE Chile. This configuration strengthens the existing electrical infrastructure and creates conditions for the progressive retirement of higher-emission equipment while increasing system flexibility.
The infrastructure can supply energy equivalent to the consumption of more than 18,000 homes for five continuous hours, providing backup to the system when demand increases or renewable generation decreases.
The project integrates 36 lithium-ion battery containers and nine conversion modules (MVS), incorporating technology designed to optimize energy storage performance and leverage previously installed infrastructure.
ENGIE accelerates its storage strategy
During the project’s commencement of operations, Juan Villavicencio, CEO of ENGIE Chile, highlighted that BESS Arica represents a new step forward in the company’s energy transformation strategy by incorporating greater storage capacity and flexibility into the National Electric System.
Furthermore, he indicated that this type of infrastructure contributes to developing a cleaner, more resilient power grid prepared to support the growth of renewable energies in the country.
Second storage system to start operations in 2026
With the addition of BESS Arica, ENGIE Chile completes its second storage system to obtain commercial operation during 2026. The project joins BESS Tocopilla, a 116 MW and 660 MWh facility located at the Tocopilla Energy Complex.
Both developments are part of the company’s energy storage expansion strategy, a technology that is playing an increasingly relevant role in increasing the reliability of the electricity supply, facilitating the integration of renewable sources, and moving toward a more efficient and sustainable energy system in Chile.
Source and photo: Engie Chile