Are battery energy storage systems a viable alternative for Chilean power producers?

With transmission lines at overcapacity and permitting delays slowing the development of new grid infrastructure, battery energy storage systems (BESS) have surged as a profitable alternative for Chilean power producers.

How long does a battery last in Chile?

Moreover, the lack of an ancillary services market in Chile discourages shorter duration batteries (1-2 hours) as seen in the US and Europe. The general industry consensus is to maximize the availability of the battery and focus on 2-3 revenue streams instead of 4 to 5 (e.g., energy arbitrage, capacity payment, and frequency reserve).

How many Bess projects are there in Chile?

This momentum is reflected in the data: AMI estimates that there is a 7.7 GW pipeline of BESS projects in Chile, far and away the most advanced front of the meter (FTM) storage market in Latin America. 1 Only 505 MW of BESS projects are currently operational in the entire region.

How much does a battery cost in Chile?

In fact, batteries charged at nearly $0/MWh during the day in the sunny, northern desert regions of Chile, sell energy at night for over $100/MWh. Although projects such as Engie’s BESS Coya are already enjoying these large spreads, this capacity payment will partially de-risk Chile’s dependence on volatile, but still profitable, merchant revenues.

Which energy storage companies are awaiting DS 62?

All Chilean energy storage players, ranging from IPPs to PCS providers, are now closely awaiting the publication of the capacity market decree (DS N 62) expected in Q2 of 2024.