Ecuador put into commercial operation the Faro de San Marco photovoltaic park, an 82 MWp plant developed in Santa Elena that is positioned as the largest solar installation in the country.
The project was developed by Lighthouse on a surface of 122 hectares and has more than 105,000 bifacial photovoltaic panels , capable of generating electricity from the radiation captured by both sides of the module.
The total investment reached USD 50 million and, according to official information, the plant will prevent the emission of approximately 41,000 tons of CO₂ per year .
During its construction phase, the initiative generated more than 400 direct jobs .
The launch also marks an advance for the private participation scheme in new electricity generation in Ecuador.
Up to 40% of the demand from Santa Elena
In its first stage, the generation of Faro de San Marco will be primarily intended to support the consumption of commercial corporations operating in the province.
Subsequently, some of that power can be incorporated into the electrical system.
The scale of the project is especially relevant for Santa Elena: according to the information released, the plant has sufficient capacity to supply up to 40% of the province's electricity demand .
The addition of this new capacity comes at a time when Ecuador is seeking to expand private investment in power generation and diversify its energy mix through new renewable sources.
Faro de San Marco thus becomes one of the main photovoltaic projects developed under this scheme, combining large-scale generation with supply for productive activities.
With its 82 MWp , more than 105,000 modules and USD 50 million investment, the plant now begins its operational stage and adds new renewable energy to the Ecuadorian electrical system.
By Emilia Lardizabal
By Energía Estratégica
By Ailén Pedrotti
