Wholesale bess battery system in Chile

Are battery energy storage systems a viable alternative for Chilean power producers?

With transmission lines at overcapacity and permitting delays slowing the development of new grid infrastructure, battery energy storage systems (BESS) have surged as a profitable alternative for Chilean power producers.

How much does a battery cost in Chile?

In fact, batteries charged at nearly $0/MWh during the day in the sunny, northern desert regions of Chile, sell energy at night for over $100/MWh. Although projects such as Engie’s BESS Coya are already enjoying these large spreads, this capacity payment will partially de-risk Chile’s dependence on volatile, but still profitable, merchant revenues.

What is the largest battery-based energy storage system in Latin America?

In March 2024, BESS Coya, the largest battery-based energy storage system in Latin America, started operations. The facility is located in the Antofagasta region and has a storage capacity of 638 MWh, with 139 MW of installed capacity. The project utilizes lithium-ion batteries and stores the energy generated by the 180-MW Coya photovoltaic plant.

Does Chile have a Bess auction procedure?

Chile has also put in place an auction procedure to award public land for the development of BESS projects. Moreover, the country’s Congress has launched discussions on amending Chile’s energy transition bill to include large-scale BESS auctions.