A Giant Leap in Renewable Energy Storage

The “Dune Plus” project represents one of the largest energy storage initiatives in the country, boasting a total storage capacity of 509 MW and 2,036 MWh, equivalent to four hours of power. This robust system integrates the existing “Dune” and “La Pampina” projects, creating a hybrid setup that combines a solar power plant with a dedicated energy storage system. The development will feature approximately 406 battery containers, over 297,000 solar panels, and more than 150 transformers spread across 186 hectares.

A key component of “Dune Plus” is its commitment to supporting major industrial decarbonization efforts. A significant portion of the energy generated will be dedicated to fulfilling a 15-year contract with Codelco, Chile’s state-owned copper mining company, supplying 1,000 GWh annually. The remaining energy will be fed into the National Electric System, further contributing to Chile’s clean energy matrix.

International Financial Backing and Strategic Partnerships

The ambitious scale of “Dune Plus” is underscored by its substantial international financing. The project secured funding through a project finance model, including a term loan and associated guarantees provided by prominent international banks such as BNP Paribas Securities, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, MUFG Bank, Société Générale, and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation. Additionally, a VAT credit was provided by Banco de Crédito e Inversiones.

This financial backing is crucial for consolidating Generadora Metropolitana’s position in the energy transition. Diego Hollweck, General Manager of Generadora Metropolitana, emphasized that the project “reaffirms our commitment to decarbonization” and serves as a milestone for the company, leveraging international financial support to expand its storage capacity and leadership role.

Driving Chile’s Energy Security and Competitiveness

The commencement of “Dune Plus” has garnered support from key figures in the renewable energy sector. Cesar Norton, President of AME, highlighted Generadora Metropolitana’s ability to execute complex projects integrating “innovation, sustainability, and a long-term vision.” He sees this as a testament to Chile’s potential to lead in large-scale renewable energy and storage integration, thereby enhancing national competitiveness and energy security.

“From our international experience, we bring not only financing and cutting-edge technology, but also the confidence and backing of one of the world’s largest energy players.”

Joan Leal, CEO of EDF power solutions Chile, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the synergy of the partnership. “Through this alliance, we reaffirm our commitment to support strategic companies like Codelco in their decarbonization process and to continue building a more secure, sustainable, and competitive energy system for Chile,” Leal stated.

Broader Context: Chile’s Renewable Energy Surge

The “Dune Plus” project is part of a broader trend in Chile’s energy sector, which has seen significant growth in renewable energy installations and advancements in energy storage solutions. Chile has set ambitious goals for clean energy adoption, driven by its abundant solar resources in the Atacama Desert and a supportive policy environment. Projects like Codelco’s two renewable energy supply contracts for 1.5 terawatts per hour annually, secured in April 2025, and Copec’s agreement with Grenergy for solar energy with storage, underscore the nation’s commitment to a cleaner energy future. Furthermore, Grenergy’s ongoing development and sale of battery projects, such as the Oasis de Atacama, highlight the increasing scale and sophistication of energy storage investments in the country.