- Zelestra launched a $200 million, 144 MW solar park in Cordoba, Colombia. The park will power 130,000 homes and support the country’s energy transition.
- The company plans to expand with a 108 MW solar project in Cesar, Colombia and aims to develop 5.5 GW of renewable energy across Colombia, Peru, and Chile.
- The La Unión solar park created 1,276 jobs, reduced carbon emissions by 168,000 tons annually, and aligns with Colombia’s decarbonization goals.
Spanish renewable energy company Zelestra launched its first solar park in Colombia, marking a critical step in its Latin American expansion. The $200 million La Unión solar park in Cordoba generates 144 megawatts (MW) of electricity, supplying power to about 130,000 homes. This project advances Colombia’s energy diversification and supports its decarbonisation efforts.
Zelestra plans to grow its presence in Colombia further with a second solar park in Cesar, set to produce 108 MW. The company also targets expansions in Peru and Chile. Zelestra aims to develop 1.5 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity in Colombia, 1 GW in Peru, and 3 GW in Chile. These initiatives aim to cement Zelestra’s position as a leading renewable energy provider in Latin America, addressing the rising demand for clean energy.
Government Support for Renewables
Colombia already leads in renewable energy, with over two-thirds of its electricity coming from renewable sources, mainly hydropower, according to Acolgen. However, recent droughts exposed the risks of overreliance on hydropower. The government has prioritised solar and wind energy projects to mitigate these risks.
President Gustavo Petro’s administration aims to add 6 GW renewable energy capacity by 2026. The government encourages foreign investment, such as Zelestra’s, through tax incentives and other support measures. Although Colombia faces administration and land rights challenges, it continues to emerge as a renewable energy hub.
Economic Benefits for Locals
The La Unión solar park contributes to Colombia’s energy transition and local job creation. During construction, the project generated 1,276 jobs, nearly half of which went to residents. Zelestra also employed 170 women, demonstrating its commitment to gender inclusion and community development.
Environmental Impact
The solar park cuts carbon dioxide emissions by 168,000 tons annually, equivalent to planting 16.8 million trees. This aligns with Colombia’s and Zelestra’s decarbonisation goals while enhancing the country’s climate resilience.
Intensifying Regional Competition
Zelestra’s expansion reflects a broader movement in Latin America, where countries like Chile and Peru have set ambitious solar and wind energy targets. The region, rich in natural resources, offers favourable policies that attract renewable energy companies.
Despite this potential, the renewable energy market in Latin America is competitive. International companies are increasingly targeting the region’s growing energy sector. Zelestra aims to stay ahead by optimizing production costs and strengthening relationships with local governments and communities.
Zelestra’s investment in Colombia marks a key milestone in its Latin American growth strategy. The La Unión solar park supports energy diversification, decarbonization, and local economic development, positioning Zelestra as a critical player in the region’s renewable energy landscape.