Written by: Salma El-Sakka
Engie Chile announced the start of commercial operation for the standalone battery energy storage project known as BESS Coya, located in the Mejillones energy complex within the vital Antofagasta region. This project represents a significant step in the transition toward sustainable energy and the integration of renewable energy sources into the national electricity grid, thanks to its advanced technical capabilities.
Project Capacity and Investment Details
The capacity of the new facility reaches approximately 142 megawatts with a total storage capacity of 802 megawatt-hours, allowing for a discharge period of about five continuous hours. The investment cost for this strategic project reached approximately 174 million US dollars. The project practically consists of 160 advanced battery containers along with 40 electrical support units that ensure operational efficiency and supply stability.
The project obtained the necessary official licenses and approvals from the relevant regulatory authorities in Chile, to be directly connected to the national electricity grid. The facility aims to store electrical energy until it is needed and pump it back according to the requirements and needs of the electrical system, which directly supports efforts to integrate large-scale renewable energy projects in the country and enhance grid flexibility.
Infrastructure Reuse and Supporting the Energy Transition
The project is distinguished by its exploitation and repurposing of the pre-existing infrastructure in the Mejillones complex, which was originally designated for traditional thermal power generation expansions, including the interconnection substation, interior areas, and access roads, thereby enhancing operational sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of new expansions.
The operation of this project represents an achievement that completes the first phase of the Mejillones complex transformation plans, coinciding with the company's previous steps to decommission coal-fired power generation units after decades of operation. The company continues to strengthen its portfolio of battery energy storage projects in Chile, contributing to raising the total operational storage capacities in the country to advanced levels to support the stability of the electricity sector.
