The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, and Central Puerto, Argentina’s largest private electricity generator, have announced a significant agreement to advance feasibility studies for a major renewable energy transmission project. This initiative plans the first power transmission line to deliver renewable energy to mining companies in northwestern Argentina’s Puna region.
The feasibility studies will evaluate the project’s technical, economic, and environmental aspects, which plans to interconnect mining projects in the Argentine Puna region to the Argentine Interconnection System (SADI). The initiative ensures reliable renewable energy for mining operations through private-private agreements, supporting the energy transition and regional growth.
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Supporting Argentina’s Energy Transition and Mining Growth
Alfonso García Mora, IFC Vice President for Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean, said, “At IFC, we seek to accelerate the global energy transition, and the private sector in Argentina has the potential to be a leader in the industry. The collaborative work with Central Puerto adds to these efforts by prioritizing renewable energy and supporting the sustainable mining industry with the necessary infrastructure to also reach its full potential.”
The USD 600 million project involves building a 140-kilometer high-voltage line from the Puna Transformer Station (ET). The transmission line will supply renewable energy, with up to 400 MW capacity, primarily sourced from wind and solar.
The infrastructure will provide constant electricity to isolated communities near the transmission line and support mining operations. This energy access will improve local quality of life and stimulate community development.
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A Vision for Sustainable Economic Growth
The renewable energy project could boost Argentina’s mining sector, which currently contributes only 0.7% to GDP, below regional peers. The project aims to close the gap, positioning Argentina as a leader in sustainable energy and boosting global competitiveness.
Central Puerto and IFC continue their successful partnership by financing renewable energy projects through initiatives like RenovAR and MATER schemes. The project ensures mining companies stable renewable energy access, supported by strong infrastructure for long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs). The IFC and Central Puerto aim to transform northwestern Argentina into a renewable energy and sustainable mining hub, boosting growth.