Is solar power a major source of electricity in Chile?

According to a study released by electric power generators’ association Generadoras de Chile, during the first half of last year, renewable energy became the country’s main source of electricity generation, with solar power at the forefront of this energy revolution.

What is Chile's energy production?

According to the Energy Institute’s Statistical Review of World Energy, in 2023, Chile produced 9.4% of its primary energy from solar sources, the highest share in any country. When we look at electricity alone, solar produced 20% of the total.

How much solar energy does Chile use?

The report shows the evolution of Chile’s solar energy use since 2013—the year in which the percentage of solar energy used as a portion of total energy consumption was first reported—up to the current figure of 7.59%, the highest of all countries in the study, including the United Kingdom, China, Japan, and the Netherlands.

Will Chile's solar power capacity quadruple in 2024?

In November 2024, Chile's solar power generation capacity was projected to quadruple until 2060, in order to help decarbonize Chile's electricity generation. Energy storage will play a key role in taking in excess supply during the day and releasing it during the night.

Does Chile have a commitment to solar energy?

«Chile’s commitment to solar energy is an ambivalent issue. Although we have made significant progress in the adoption of renewable energy, and especially solar power, there is still a lot of work to do,» said Camila Svec, COO of Chilean renewable energy manufacturing company CleanLight.

How will solar power develop in Chile in 2060?

Energy storage will play a key role in taking in excess supply during the day and releasing it during the night. Due to its high solar potential, solar power developments will likely grow most in the north. Solar generation is expected to contribute 46% of Chile's electricity in 2060. Northern Chile has the highest solar incidence in the world.