In a significant step towards strengthening its renewable energy infrastructure, Bolivia recently announced securing substantial international financing for the development of two major solar projects. With a strong focus on expanding its renewable energy capacity, Bolivia has successfully negotiated a €34 million ($37 million) financing deal with German development bank KfW. This financing is earmarked for the 40MW Contorno Bajo solar project, Manuel Valle Vargas, CEO of Bolivia’s state power company Ende, revealed during a recent presentation. This project is a testament to Bolivia’s commitment to adopting renewable energy sources and reducing its carbon footprint.
The search for renewable energy in Bolivia does not end there. The country is also in active talks with the Saudi Fund for Development to secure an additional $75 million for the 81MW Patacamaya solar project. Both projects are strategically located in the department of La Paz and represent crucial steps in Bolivia’s broader initiative to significantly increase its renewable energy production. These developments are not isolated efforts but part of a concerted push towards sustainability, with Ende and its subsidiary Ende Guaracachi spearheading early-stage solar projects in several departments. These include the 126MW Vinto project in Oruro and the 63MW Santivañez project in Cochabamba, among others.
Expanding solar energy capacity in Bolivia
Ende Guaracachi’s solar development portfolio is impressive, with projects such as a 20MW project in Viru Viru in the department of Santa Cruz and a 2.5MW expansion of the current 60MW solar park in Uyuni. In addition, Guaracachi operates several other solar parks in Bolivia, including Yunchará (5MW), and manages the El Sena (400kWp), Cobija (5MW) and Oruro (100MW) solar parks for Ende. This extensive network of solar projects underscores Bolivia’s dedication to renewable energy and highlights the country’s efforts to collaborate with international partners to achieve its ambitious goals.
Through these initiatives, Bolivia is setting a precedent for the development of renewable energy in South America. The collaboration with German and Saudi financiers not only provides financial support but also international expertise, ensuring that these projects not only contribute to Bolivia’s energy sustainability but also drive economic growth and technological advancement within the country. As Bolivia continues its path toward a greener future, these developments mark important milestones on its path toward reliance on renewable energy.
