The Bariloche Electricity Cooperative (CEB) is advancing plans for its inaugural 15-megawatt (MW) photovoltaic park, a strategic move designed to integrate solar energy into its supply system and significantly diversify the region's energy matrix. The ambitious project, currently in its technical and financial evaluation phase, is slated for development in the high solar radiation areas east of Bariloche, specifically within the steppe region, where climatic conditions are optimal for solar capture.

This initiative directly addresses the CEB's objective to reduce its dependence on the wholesale electricity market, enhance operational efficiency, and mitigate the substantial costs associated with energy transportation. Bariloche currently relies heavily on hydroelectric power from the Alicurá dam and a 20 MW thermal park at La Paloma. The proposed solar facility is projected to cover more than 25% of Bariloche's current electricity consumption, estimated between 56 MW and 58 MW.

Horacio Fernández, manager of the CEB, emphasized the project's role in addressing peak demand, particularly during the city's robust tourist seasons. "Solar energy will allow covering demand peaks, especially during the tourist season, and offer a more sustainable alternative," Fernández stated. The technical and financial viability assessment, conducted in coordination with the provincial Energy Secretariat, highlights the strategic location near Dina Huapi, offering both high insolation and proximity to existing medium and high-voltage transmission lines. The project requires at least 25 hectares for panel installation.

Financially, the investment is estimated at approximately $900,000 per installed megawatt. The CEB is actively seeking long-term financing, targeting minimum seven-year terms to align with the project's amortization period. Fernández noted that existing tax advantages further bolster the project's economic viability. The cooperative plans to incorporate advanced solar panels featuring "tracking" technology, enabling them to orient dynamically with the sun's angle for maximized energy capture. Additionally, the design includes battery banks for energy storage, ensuring consistent availability and allowing for the sale of surplus energy back to the national electrical system.

While the solar park will not entirely replace thermal generation, it will substantially complement Bariloche's energy mix and contribute significantly to reducing the region's carbon footprint. Alejandro Pozas, president of CEB, confirmed that discussions have commenced with Calf de Neuquén to leverage their experiences with similar projects. The cooperative is also exploring the use of public or private lands, potentially within the industrial and technological park of Bariloche, for the park's establishment.

Néstor Pérez from the provincial Energy Secretariat underscored that Bariloche's solar park is part of a broader provincial strategy to promote renewable energy across various regions, including the Atlantic area, Alto Valle, and Línea Sur. "Profitability is assured, and tax benefits are a key incentive. The challenge is to access appropriate financing," Pérez concluded, highlighting the provincial government's commitment to fostering a sustainable energy future.