South America is basking in sunlight, leveraging vast landscapes to catapult solar energy to the forefront of electrical generation. Nations such as Chile, Brazil, and Colombia have embraced solar power, propelling them towards a brighter, cleaner energy future.
The Rise of Solar Energy in Chile
Chile’s solar journey began modestly in 2013 with an 8 MW capacity, which has since skyrocketed. By 2023, an astonishing 9.3 GW of solar power was operational, with plans to introduce an additional 4 GW the following year. Solar energy now constitutes a remarkable 27% of Chile’s total electricity capacity, contributing to 19% of the nation’s generated power in 2023.
Indeed, Chile’s renewable energy production has outpaced fossil fuels for the first time, with solar playing a pivotal role alongside hydro and wind power. Nevertheless, as solar deployment accelerates, challenges have emerged due to the country’s unique geography. The northern desert regions, rich in solar resources, generate more electricity than the current grid can handle at peak sun hours. Consequently, Chile is constructing the Kimal–Lo Aguirre HVDC transmission line. Stretching over 1,350 km, this project aims to bridge the gap between generation and transmission capacity by 2029, enabling further reduction in fossil fuel reliance.
Brazil’s Ambitious Solar Push
Brazil boasts an impressive 200 GW generation capacity, with an enviable 85% from renewable sources. Dominated by hydroelectric power, Brazil’s clean energy grid is further enriched by growing solar and wind contributions. Already ranked sixth globally in total solar capacity, Brazil continues to expand its solar footprint, aiming to reach 45 GW by 2024.
The construction of over 100 GW of new capacity is on the horizon, with solar expected to make up a significant portion. Moreover, Brazil’s proficiency in developing HVDC lines is evidenced by current operational projects, enhancing the nation’s ability to distribute solar energy efficiently from its sunny interior to populous coastal regions.
Colombia’s Solar Auction Dominance
Colombia’s mountainous terrain has traditionally favored hydroelectric power, yet recent energy auctions have signaled a significant shift towards solar. In the latest auction, solar PV claimed an astonishing 99% of the energy purchased. Colombia was once a latecomer to solar energy; however, following a delayed expansion due to pandemic setbacks, it is now poised for rapid growth.
While Colombia’s grid may be smaller than Chile’s, its commitment to expanding renewable energy is evident. Solar currently represents about 6% of electrical generation, but with substantial capacity additions from renewable energy auctions, this share is set for substantial growth. Colombia is also working on large wind energy projects, although progress has been slower. The country’s renewable energy future seems promising, and solar, alongside other clean resources, may eventually edge out fossil fuels from the energy mix.
South America’s Brightening Horizon
Across South America, the embrace of solar energy is accelerating. The continent’s favorable climatic conditions, paired with declining solar costs, suggest a robust trajectory for solar deployment. Challenges in energy storage and grid management remain, yet the promise of affordable storage solutions offers optimism.
Uruguay has already achieved a fully renewable electricity sector, and by 2030, other South American nations are likely to emulate this success. The sun not only shines on South America but also illuminates a path towards a sustainable, renewable energy-powered future.
