Overview
MARIA ELENA is a 68 MW solar PV facility located in Chile. Operational and contributing to the country's renewable energy capacity.
MARIA ELENA is a solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant located in Chile, with an installed capacity of 68 megawatts (MW). The facility is operational and plays a role in Chile's growing renewable energy sector, which benefits from high solar irradiance in many regions. The plant uses solar PV technology to convert sunlight into electricity. Chile has a strong regulatory framework supporting renewables, including a national renewable energy target of 70% by 2050 and a net billing law for distributed generation. Large-scale solar projects like MARIA ELENA are key to meeting these goals. The facility contributes to the local grid, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Solar PV plants in Chile often operate in areas with high solar resource, supporting energy diversification and energy security.
Environmental context
Solar PV plants like MARIA ELENA require significant land area, which can impact local ecosystems and land use. In Chile, solar farms are often located in arid regions with high solar radiation, minimizing conflicts with agriculture. The environmental benefits include zero emissions during operation and reduced water consumption compared to thermal power plants.
Frequently asked questions
MARIA ELENA is located in Chile, with coordinates approximately 40.77°S, 72.49°W.
The MARIA ELENA solar PV plant has an installed capacity of 68 megawatts (MW).
Yes, the MARIA ELENA solar PV plant is currently operational.
Chile has a national renewable energy target of 70% by 2050 and a net billing law for distributed generation, which supports solar PV development.
Solar PV plants like MARIA ELENA produce electricity with zero emissions during operation, reduce water consumption compared to thermal plants, and help diversify Chile's energy mix.