With the Pradera solar-plus-storage project—which just broke ground —Colombia is set to increase its capacity for reliable clean energy. This ambitious initiative, on contiguous property, will produce more than 95.8 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean energy each year. Once it comes online, it’ll provide electricity to almost 71,000 residents and prevent the equivalent of about 129,000 tons of CO₂ emissions.
Project developers expect that the project can deliver direct environmental benefits along with major economic opportunities. During its construction phase, Pradera created approximately 270 jobs, 64% of those jobs were filled by local residents. Perhaps most importantly, women made up 30% of the state’s construction workforce, reflecting a high-diversity, high-inclusion model for job creation.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The Pradera project is expected to have an estimated 380 jobs during the construction phase. Once fully operational, it will create 29 permanent operational positions. This boost of jobs is essential to local economies, especially as Colombia pivots to more sustainable forms of energy.
The project has been awarded $1.5 million in development funding in-kind from CIO to further advance the project’s design and plan its eventual implementation.
“Access to capital for climate infrastructure remains one of the main barriers to achieving Colombia’s 2050 net-zero ambition.” – Juan Paez
This funding is essential for addressing the pecuniary hurdles that routinely block clean energy initiatives across the Circuit.
Technological Advancements
Pradera is particularly notable for the extensive implementation of battery energy storage systems (BESS). These systems are built to absorb and address short-term variations in cloud cover on solar generation. The plant combines 18 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery storage with its 40 megawatts (MW) AC of solar capacity. This smart combination will help avoid grid imbalances and prevent exposure to expensive volatility in the spot market.
The project’s interconnection through a 1.2-kilometer aerial line at 34.5 kilovolts (kV) adds to its operational efficiency and reliability.
“Our partnership with Erco Energía, supported by the European Union, shows how blended finance can help bridge that gap – unlocking investment for projects that strengthen energy security and accelerate the clean energy transition.” – Juan Paez
This new collaboration is a model for how innovative financing structures can help get vital infrastructure built.
Commitment to Sustainability
Pradera is Colombia’s largest installation of its type. The Law It’s a big advancement in the country’s commitment to renewable energy. The project dovetails nicely with national goals for more sustainable growth patterns and achieving energy independence.
“With Pétalo del Norte now operational and Pradera in development, we are building a solar platform that will deliver sustainable growth across the country.” – Juan Paez
The new Pradera solar project will produce great, clean energy. It provides a strong leadership precedent for much needed future infill development across the region.