Chile continues to expand its decentralized energy infrastructure with the environmental approval of the Pradera Larga solar project, developed by Limes Renewable Energy. Located in Casablanca, Valparaíso Region, this hybrid project integrates an 84 MWp solar photovoltaic plant with a 90 MW battery energy storage system (BESS).
Pradera Larga solar project in Central Chile
Unlike megaprojects in northern Chile, Limes chooses high-demand areas such as Casablanca to install renewable infrastructure, reducing dependence on long-distance transmission. This decision seeks to increase the efficiency of the electricity system and facilitate more stable PPA contracts by avoiding grid bottlenecks.
The Pradera Larga project represents an estimated investment of US$150 million and becomes the company’s most important development outside Europe to reach this stage of progress.
Chile as a pillar of expansion in Latin America
With a consolidated track record in Italy, Limes considers Chile as a key market for its regional growth. Pradera Larga’s environmental approval (RCA) confirms its ability to adapt to more demanding regulatory environments such as those in the center of the country.
The next step for Pradera Larga will be to reach the Ready-to-Build (RTB) stage, including financial structuring and the definition of power purchase and sale contracts. In parallel, the company is managing the processing of other projects, such as BESS Huañil (200 MW), as well as early stage developments such as BESS Pimiento and BESS El Ganso.
Robust energy storage portfolio
Limes’ current pipeline in Chile reaches 180 MWp in solar PV and 620 MW in BESS storage. This portfolio seeks to actively contribute to the stability of the national energy system, especially in contexts of high variability of renewable generation.
With Pradera Larga as a reference, Limes consolidates its position as an independent power producer (IPP) focused on hybrid solutions and large-scale projects in the region.
Source: Limes Renewable Energy
Photo: Shutterstock
