Chile advances multiple large-scale battery energy storage projects with significant investments amid regulatory progress

The Chilean energy storage sector is experiencing substantial development, marked by the environmental qualification process of several major Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects. FreePower Group’s BESS Imilac project has been admitted to the environmental evaluation system (SEIA) with plans for 360 MW power capacity and 1,800 MWh energy storage. Located in Antofagasta region at an elevation of 3,070 meters, the project entails a $270 million investment and covers 6.3 hectares. The system will store surplus generation from the national grid during low-demand daytime hours for dispatch during peak consumption periods, without new electricity production. The infrastructure includes a step-up substation elevating voltage from 33 kV to 220 kV and a short 0.24 km transmission line connecting to the Monte Mina substation. Construction is expected to start in October 2026 and operations by early 2028, with a projected 40-year lifespan.

In the Coquimbo region, Energía Plus has advanced a 200 MW /1,000 MWh BESS named Camarones, involving a $350 million investment and occupying 13.57 hectares. The project encompasses 315 lithium-ion battery containers and extensive electrical infrastructure including multiple substations and a 220 kV overhead transmission connection, with operations anticipated from late 2026 through 2046. Similarly, the Dorado BESS project in O’Higgins region proposes 60 MW and 300 MWh capacity with an estimated $45 million investment, focusing on grid reliability through time-shifting energy, and targets a 25-year lifespan starting construction in April 2027.

Higher capacity systems also progress, such as Zelestra Energy’s Ramaditas photovoltaic and BESS project in Tarapacá, featuring 420 MWp solar capacity and 2,160 MWh battery storage, with a $550 million budget. The standalone BESS adjacent to Nueva Pozo Almonte, employing lithium iron phosphate technology, plans 762 MWh capacity over 6.5 hectares with $157.5 million investment, slated for construction in early 2026 and 22 years operational life.

International firms like Italian Limes Renewable Energy secured environmental approval for the Pradera Larga project in Valparaíso region, combining 84 MWp solar and 90 MW BESS capacity at $150 million investment. Limes targets development closer to demand centers to reduce transmission risk and strategic reliance on northern solar generation.

Cumulatively, these projects reflect Chile’s commitment to expand grid flexibility, integrate renewable generation effectively, and reduce carbon intensity by replacing fossil technologies. The rapid influx of high-capacity BESS assets underscores the growing confidence in large-scale battery economics driven by declining technology costs and supportive regulatory frameworks. The environmental permitting progress signals increased momentum for green infrastructure investments poised to reshape Chile’s energy landscape over the next decade.