PV project developer SunEdison and Chilean mining and steel group CAP have signed an agreement to develop what is described as the largest PV plant in Latin America.
Located in the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, the project will utilise more than 300,000 Silvantis monocrystalline silicon modules supplied by SunEdison’s parent company MEMC.
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These modules are made from non-toxic, non-polluting material that can be recycled at the end of its useful life. The plant will also utilise trackers designed by SunEdison and made from steel produced by CAP.
The first phase of the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2013.
When complete, the plant will generate an estimated 270GWh of electricity every year, helping to meet 15% of the mining group's energy needs.
It will also be managed by the SunEdison Renewable Operations Center (ROC). The ROC provides round the clock monitoring and management services to a global portfolio of PV installations including those owned and operated by SunEdison and third parties.
Jaime Charles, CEO of CAP commented: “This agreement serves to reaffirm CAP's commitment to innovation and sustainable development in Chile, by using state-of-the-art technology to meet the renewable energy goals set by the Chilean Government. SunEdison's track record and long-term commitment to projects were key factors in selecting this company as our partner on this initiative.”
