Overview
Arica I is an 18 MW operational solar PV facility located near Arica, Chile. It contributes to the country's growing renewable energy capacity under the national energy transition framework.
Arica I is a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant located in the Arica y Parinacota Region of northern Chile. With an installed capacity of 18 megawatts (MW), it is a small- to medium-scale solar facility that supplies clean electricity to the local grid. The plant is operational and benefits from the region's high solar irradiance, one of the best in the world for solar energy generation. The facility operates under Chile's renewable energy regulatory framework, which includes a target of 70% renewable electricity by 2030 and a carbon neutrality goal by 2050. Solar PV plants like Arica I are supported through net billing and renewable energy certificates. The plant uses standard photovoltaic technology, converting sunlight directly into electricity without emissions. Arica I plays a role in diversifying Chile's energy mix, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and supporting local energy security. Its location in the Atacama Desert, one of the sunniest places on Earth, maximizes generation efficiency. The plant's output helps meet growing electricity demand in the region and contributes to national climate goals.
Environmental context
The Arica I solar PV plant is situated in the Atacama Desert, an area with extremely high solar radiation and minimal cloud cover, making it ideal for solar energy generation. The facility occupies land that was previously barren, so land-use impact is low. However, large-scale solar installations can affect local desert ecosystems and wildlife, such as birds and reptiles, through habitat alteration. The plant's design includes measures to minimize ground disturbance and manage stormwater runoff. The arid climate means water use for panel cleaning is minimal, a key environmental advantage over other generation types.
Frequently asked questions
Arica I is located near the city of Arica in the Arica y Parinacota Region of northern Chile, in the Atacama Desert.
Arica I has an installed capacity of 18 megawatts (MW), making it a small- to medium-scale solar photovoltaic facility.
The operator of Arica I is not publicly listed, but it is part of Chile's growing portfolio of solar PV plants under the national renewable energy framework.
Chile's renewable energy targets aim for 70% renewable electricity by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050. Solar PV is supported through net billing, renewable energy certificates, and tax incentives.
Arica I generates clean electricity without emissions, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Its location in the Atacama Desert minimizes land-use conflicts, and the plant uses minimal water for cleaning due to the arid climate.