Copec Emoac and Verano Energy Advance Hybrid Solar Project “Observatorio” in O’Higgins with 660 MWh Battery Storage

The Observatorio project represents a $190 million investment combining solar generation and battery storage designed to deliver approximately 150 GWh annually, enough to supply over 70,000 households. Unlike the traditional concentration of Chile’s solar assets in the northern regions, this installation exploits the untapped solar potential of the central-southern area, closer to major consumption centers. This proximity is expected to reduce transmission losses and improve grid efficiency. The inclusion of 660 MWh of BESS allows for more reliable and stable energy delivery by mitigating the intermittent nature of solar generation and enhancing the operational flexibility of the national grid.

Copec Emoac emphasized the project’s contribution to diversifying Chile’s energy matrix and reinforcing system resilience through distributed generation supported by advanced storage technology. For Verano Energy, the contract enables the commercialization of 100% renewable energy on a continuous 24-hour basis, positioning renewables competitively against traditional energy sources. Since its founding in 2012, Verano Energy has expanded its portfolio to over 60 grid-connected projects with more than 1 GW in development across Latin America.

This agreement follows Copec Emoac’s series of renewable PPAs in 2025, including deals supplying major retail and industrial clients. Alongside the Observatorio development, Copec recently partnered with Transelec to build a 420 MWh BESS project at their Granja Solar Park, further advancing Chile’s energy storage capacity. These initiatives underpin the growing trend toward hybrid renewable projects integrating solar PV and battery storage to meet Chile’s decarbonization goals and stabilize the power system amid rising renewable penetration.