Peru’s Renewable Energy Ambitions Soar with Kallpa Pampa Salinas Solar Complex

Peru is set to bolster its renewable energy credentials with the development of the Kallpa Pampa Salinas I and II photovoltaic complex, boasting a combined capacity of 468 MW. Located in the Moquegua region, known for its exceptional solar radiation and favorable climate, this strategic initiative underscores the region’s promise as a solar energy hub.

Kallpa Generación’s Feasibility Studies Underway

The Peruvian Ministry of Energy and Mines (MINEM) has granted Kallpa Generación S.A. two temporary concessions to conduct feasibility studies for the proposed solar projects.

CSF Pampa Salinas I: Set in El Algarrobal, Ilo Province, with an installed capacity of 234 MW, the project has 24 months to complete feasibility assessments under Ministerial Resolution No. 437-2024-MINEM/DM.

CSF Pampa Salinas II: Located in Moquegua District, Mariscal Nieto Province, also with an installed capacity of 234 MW, it is governed by Ministerial Resolution No. 436-2024-MINEM/DM.

If successful, these projects will position Moquegua as a significant player in Peru’s renewable energy landscape.

Competing on a Regional Scale

South America is witnessing a surge in solar energy developments, led by Brazil’s mega-projects like the Janauba Solar Complex (1.6 GW) and São Gonçalo Solar Park (864 MW). While the Kallpa Pampa Salinas complex could potentially join the region's top 10 largest solar facilities, it faces stiff competition from Brazil’s rapidly growing renewable energy sector.

Peru’s Renewable Energy Potential

Former Energy Minister Rómulo Mucho highlighted Peru’s immense renewable energy resources at the “Energy Transmission Policies in Peru” forum. With a solar energy potential of 937 GW and 11.5 GW of installed capacity across 53 facilities in regions like Moquegua, Arequipa, and Ica, Peru is well-positioned to lead clean energy initiatives.

Beyond solar, the country’s renewable energy potential includes:

• 70 GW in hydropower,

• 20 GW in wind energy,

• 3 GW in geothermal energy.

  
  

These resources underline Peru’s commitment to diversifying its energy mix and attracting investments worth an estimated US$8.3 billion in solar energy alone.

A Sustainable Future for Peru

With the Kallpa Pampa Salinas projects, Peru is taking a critical step toward achieving its renewable energy goals. As the world shifts toward cleaner energy sources, initiatives like these will play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable development.