YPF Luz has achieved a critical milestone by initiating commercial operation of the first 100 MW phase of the El Quemado Solar Park in Mendoza, positioning it as the largest photovoltaic project in Argentina. The park’s full capacity of 305 MW is slated for staged commissioning by mid-2026, supported by a $210 million investment under Argentina’s Régimen de Incentivo para Grandes Inversiones (RIGI), signaling strong government backing for large-scale renewable infrastructure.
The El Quemado Solar Park, located in Las Heras, Mendoza, began injecting 100 MW into the Argentine power grid after receiving CAMMESA’s commercial authorization, doubling YPF Luz’s solar capacity to 200 MW and marking the company’s seventh renewable energy development. Construction progress has exceeded 80%, with over 511,000 bifacial photovoltaic panels installed across more than 600 hectares, designed to deliver an estimated 31.4% capacity factor—among the highest in the country for solar technology. The park connects to the national grid (SADI) via a newly built 220/33 kV transformer station, energized early in December to facilitate commissioning and functional testing prior to full operation.
Once fully operational, El Quemado will supply clean energy equivalent to the consumption of over 233,000 Argentine households, enough to cover the entire electricity demand of Mendoza city and the Las Heras and Lavalle departments. The project has generated significant local employment, providing over 400 jobs at peak construction, with 87% filled by residents, enhancing regional economic impact.
Under the RIGI framework, which ensures fiscal, regulatory, and currency stability, El Quemado exemplifies Argentina’s strategic push to attract major investments in renewable energy and infrastructure. Originally advanced by Emesa and acquired by YPF Luz in 2023, the development underscores YPF Luz’s commitment to expanding its renewable portfolio, complementing assets like the 100 MW Zonda project in San Juan. The continued ramp-up of El Quemado’s capacity will contribute to diversifying Argentina’s energy matrix and support the country’s transition toward sustainable power generation.
