Overview
COLIHUES is a 21.2 MW diesel power plant in Chile, operated by MVC GENERACION. It provides operational power generation capacity to the local grid.
COLIHUES is a diesel power plant located in Chile, operated by MVC GENERACION. With a capacity of 21.2 MW, it falls into the small-scale category for power generation facilities. The plant is currently operational and contributes to the country's energy mix. The facility operates on diesel fuel, a common choice for peaking plants and backup power in Chile. While specific technical details such as turbine type or efficiency are not disclosed, diesel plants typically use reciprocating engines or combustion turbines. Chile's power sector is regulated by the Ministry of Energy and the National Energy Commission (CNE), with environmental oversight from the Ministry of the Environment. Emissions from diesel plants are subject to national air quality standards and may require permits under the country's environmental impact assessment system. As a diesel-fired facility, COLIHUES plays a role in providing flexible generation to meet peak demand or grid stability needs. Its relatively small capacity suggests it may serve a local community or industrial area. The plant's environmental footprint includes CO2 emissions and local pollutants like NOx and particulate matter, which are typical for diesel generation. Its location in central Chile places it within a region with significant energy demand from urban and industrial centers.
Environmental context
The COLIHUES diesel power plant operates in central Chile, a region with moderate air quality concerns due to industrial and urban emissions. Diesel combustion produces CO2, NOx, SOx, and particulate matter, which can affect local air quality. The plant's capacity of 21.2 MW is relatively small, limiting its overall environmental impact compared to larger fossil fuel facilities. However, proximity to populated areas may require adherence to strict emission standards under Chilean environmental regulations.
Frequently asked questions
COLIHUES is located in Chile, with coordinates approximately 34.2425° S, 70.6744° W, in the central region of the country.
COLIHUES is a diesel power plant, meaning it primarily uses diesel fuel (oil) for electricity generation.
The plant is owned and operated by MVC GENERACION, a Chilean energy company.
Diesel power plants in Chile must comply with national emission standards set by the Ministry of the Environment, including limits on NOx, SOx, and particulate matter. They may also require environmental impact assessments and permits under the country's environmental law.
COLIHUES has a capacity of 21.2 megawatts (MW), which classifies it as a small-scale power generation facility.