Expected ROI of LFP battery system project in Chile 2030

Are battery energy storage systems a viable alternative for Chilean power producers?

With transmission lines at overcapacity and permitting delays slowing the development of new grid infrastructure, battery energy storage systems (BESS) have surged as a profitable alternative for Chilean power producers.

Are LFP batteries the future of energy storage?

LFP batteries are evolving from an alternative solution to the dominant force in energy storage. With advancing technology and economies of scale, costs could drop below ¥0.3/Wh ($0.04/Wh) by 2030, propelling global installations beyond 2,000GWh.

How much does a battery cost in Chile?

In fact, batteries charged at nearly $0/MWh during the day in the sunny, northern desert regions of Chile, sell energy at night for over $100/MWh. Although projects such as Engie’s BESS Coya are already enjoying these large spreads, this capacity payment will partially de-risk Chile’s dependence on volatile, but still profitable, merchant revenues.

How can Chile keep up with the changing energy demand landscape?

Chile is exploring a variety of solutions to keep abreast of the changing energy demand landscape ranging from BESS to innovative projects using CO2. In March 2024, BESS Coya, the largest battery-based energy storage system in Latin America, started operations.

Is lithium a critical energy resource in Chile?

The global and regional significance of lithium as a critical energy resource is examined. The evolution of Chile's lithium industry is analyzed, emphasizing two recent key policy initiatives: the 2015 National Lithium Commission report and the newly launched national lithium strategy. The salient features of these initiatives are outlined.

What is happening in Chile's Power Mix in 2023?

The share of renewables in Chile’s power mix has been growing at a fast pace and reached 58% in 2023. This rapid growth has spurred existing project owners and new market entrants to focus on the development and implementation of BESS, integrated or co-located at generation facilities.