Chile is getting ready to power up with photovoltaics the SOAR, Gemini South, and Rubin telescopes, located in Cerro Pachón, Coquimbo region.
The project aims to provide energy to the mentioned telescopes through a 4.5 MWp solar park and a energy storage system (BESS) of 20 MWh.
This innovative project, accepted for processing by the Environmental Impact Assessment Service (SEIA), aims to replace the conventional energy supply with a more sustainable solution.
Details of the project to power up the telescopes with photovoltaics
Installed Capacity: 4.5 MWp of solar energy and 20 MWh of storage through lithium-iron-phosphate batteries distributed in six banks.
Infrastructure:
- Solar park area: 3,477 hectares.
- Interconnection: 662m 23 kV line to the existing Cerro Pachón network.
Location: Vicuña and Río Hurtado municipalities, Elqui and Limarí provinces.
Objectives and Deadlines
Among the project’s objectives and deadlines are providing energy to the scientific and academic facilities of the observatories, without connection to the National Electric System (SEN).
The solar park is expected to have an estimated lifespan of 50 years and 10 months. The project is expected to start in September 2025, with completion by March 2026.
Scientific Importance
The SOAR, Gemini South, and Rubin telescopes are among the most advanced in the world, used for universe exploration. Each one has unique features and plays a key role in exploring the cosmos. The first two started operating in 2004 and 2002, respectively, while Rubin is under construction and expected to be active this year.
This project ensures a sustainable and reliable energy source to continue high-level astronomical research of great importance for Chile and the whole world.
Cover photo: Contec
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