Within the framework of Chile Day in Madrid and London, Independent Energy Generators – IPP Chile (GIE) highlighted the opportunity to enable a new portfolio of investments in stand-alone BESS storage systems connected to distribution networks.
The union sent a letter to the Minister of Energy, Ximena Rincón, with copies to the SEC, the CNE and to Congressman Cristián Tapia, president of the Mining and Energy Commission of the Chamber, proposing alternatives to continue advancing in the implementation of the new regulatory framework.
Decree No. 1 of 2026 incorporated energy storage systems into the regulations applicable to this segment, a step forward that GIE welcomed. To facilitate the connection of stand-alone BESS systems, the Technical Standard for Connection and Operation (NTCO) still needs to be updated to include the necessary procedures and technical requirements. Until this update is completed, these projects cannot begin or continue their connection processes.
According to industry estimates, there are approximately 500 MW of projects in various stages of development , with associated investments of around US$450 million .
GIE proposed to address this stage through two complementary measures: evaluating a Circular Letter from the SEC with transitional technical criteria , following mechanisms previously used by the authority, and simultaneously advancing a focused update of the NTCO as a definitive solution.
“The new regulations were an important step, and now we have the opportunity to complete their implementation. We appreciate the willingness of the Ministry of Energy, the SEC, and the CNE to work on these definitions and allow a significant investment portfolio to materialize in Chile,” said Mauricio Utreras , executive director of GIE.
For the industry, enabling these projects would also allow the development of storage to extend to distribution networks, bringing its benefits closer to the networks and their users and complementing the strong growth of BESS connected to transmission.
“At a time when Chile is showcasing its strengths in attracting investment in Madrid and London, having US$450 million in projects interested in moving forward is a good sign. We are fully prepared to contribute technically and work alongside the authorities on a swift and secure solution,” Utreras added.