Overview
Caldenes del Oeste is a 30 MW operational solar PV facility in Argentina. It contributes to the country's growing renewable energy capacity under national renewable energy targets.
Caldenes del Oeste is a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant located in Argentina, with an operational capacity of 30 megawatts (MW). The facility is part of Argentina's expanding renewable energy sector, which has been driven by national policies such as the RenovAr program and the goal of achieving 20% renewable energy by 2025. As a medium-scale solar installation, it supports the diversification of the country's energy mix away from fossil fuels. The plant operates using solar PV technology, converting sunlight directly into electricity. With a capacity of 30 MW, it falls within the typical range for utility-scale solar projects in Argentina, which often range from 10 MW to over 100 MW. The facility benefits from Argentina's high solar irradiation levels, particularly in the central and western regions, making solar PV a viable and increasingly cost-effective energy source. The regulatory framework includes feed-in tariffs and power purchase agreements that have incentivized such projects. Environmentally, the Caldenes del Oeste solar plant contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel-based generation. Solar PV installations have a relatively low environmental footprint, though they require land use and can impact local ecosystems. The facility's location in a semi-arid region minimizes conflicts with agriculture, and its operation supports Argentina's commitment to the Paris Agreement and sustainable energy development.
Environmental context
The Caldenes del Oeste solar PV plant is situated in a semi-arid region of central Argentina, where solar irradiation is high and land use is predominantly for grazing or dryland agriculture. Solar installations in such areas have minimal water requirements and can coexist with low-intensity land uses. The facility helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lowering local air pollution and carbon emissions. However, large-scale solar farms can alter local microclimates and require careful site selection to avoid sensitive habitats.
Frequently asked questions
Caldenes del Oeste is a solar PV power plant located in Argentina, with coordinates approximately 33.61°S, 65.45°W, in the central region of the country.
The Caldenes del Oeste solar plant has an installed capacity of 30 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale utility solar installation.
Caldenes del Oeste uses solar photovoltaic (PV) technology to convert sunlight into electricity. It is an operational facility with no reported storage.
Argentina supports renewable energy through the RenovAr program, which offers long-term power purchase agreements and feed-in tariffs. The country aims for 20% renewable electricity by 2025 under national law.
Solar PV plants like Caldenes del Oeste reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution by displacing fossil fuel generation. They also have low water consumption, which is beneficial in arid regions.