In a firm step towards a model of sustainable road infrastructure, the province of San Juan is advancing with a pioneering project. The Circunvalación Avenue will be the first solar road in the country.
The project, promoted by the provincial government and carried out by the company Chiconi S.R.L, aims to reduce the carbon footprint of the road lighting system with renewable energy.
Clean Energy and the First Solar Road: The Project in San Juan
The initiative is being executed by the San Juan company Chiconi S.R.L., which was selected through a public bidding process due to its outstanding track record in electrical works, both public and private. With over 30 years of experience, it positions itself as a key player in the regional energy transition.
The project includes the installation of 36 solar systems of 5 kW each, mounted on seven-meter-high metal poles, strategically oriented to the north to maximize solar capture.
The infrastructure will power the entire lighting system of the avenue with clean energy. It will generate an estimated saving of $30,000 annually and a projected lifespan of 30 years.
Local Employment and Productive Impact
In addition to the environmental benefit, this project represents a driving force for local economy and the generation of green jobs.
Currently, over 40 people are working directly on the project, not counting the engineering team, metalworkers, concrete suppliers, iron manufacturers, and associated companies involved in the development.
The symbolic value of the project goes beyond the technical aspects: it demonstrates that San Juan has the technical, productive, and entrepreneurial capacity to lead projects of high complexity in renewable energies.
“Sometimes there is a debate about whether we are ready for this. And I believe this project answers it alone: not only are we ready, but we are also capable of generating solutions that can be replicated in other provinces and countries,” stated the company to Diario Huarpe.
Chiconi S.R.L., reaffirms its position as a reference in sustainable electrical infrastructure with this project.
The total estimated budget for the completion of the works is $1,667,662,565.20. Each section is estimated at $416,915,641.30.
The Benefits of Solar Energy
Among the main points, the benefits of using this energy source are:
1. It is Clean and Renewable:
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Solar energy is 100% renewable and does not emit greenhouse gases.
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It directly contributes to the reduction of climate change and atmospheric pollution.
2. Reduces Costs:
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It allows savings on electricity bills in the short, medium, and long term.
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It can even generate excess energy that is sold back to the grid in net metering systems.
3. Minimal Maintenance:
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Solar systems require little maintenance: regular cleaning and basic technical inspections.
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The panels have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years.
4. Autonomy and Energy Security:
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It reduces dependence on fossil fuels and the conventional electrical system.
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Ideal for rural or isolated areas without access to the electrical grid.
