08:34 | Lima, Apr. 19 (ANDINA).
French power operator GDF Suez announced Monday it will invest approximately EUR450 million (US$ 600 million) in two hydroelectric power plants in Peru's Lima and Ancash regions.
On 14 April, GDF SUEZ took part in the first long-term energy auction organized by distribution companies in Peru for the supply of electricity for the period from 2013 to 2025, for a total of 2,990 MW.
Through its subsidiary EnerSur, the second largest private electric generation company in the country, GDF SUEZ was awarded – in the four bidding processes that were held – a total of 662 MW, representing total revenues of approximately 1.5 billion euros.
Energy for the bids will be supplied from Enersur’s existing capacity, and through the construction of a hydroelectric power plant, Quitaracsa I, located 500 km to the North East of Lima in the Ancash region. The Quitaracsa I hydroelectric power plant will have an estimated capacity of 112 MW, and will be part of the National Electricity Grid.
In addition, GDF SUEZ’s existing ChilcaUno thermal power plant will be converted to combined cycle, increasing the plant’s capacity by approximately 270 MW. This boosts the total capacity of this plant - which is located close to Lima - to approximately 800 MW.
The total investment required for both projects will amount to approximately 450 million euros.
Both projects will be instrumental in supplying Peru’s growing energy demands, and will further diversify the Group’s portfolio. GDF SUEZ’s contribution of over 380 MW new electricity generation is part of its long-term commitment to Peru and the development of its energy sector.
Presence in Peru
Through EnerSur, GDF SUEZ currently has a generation capacity of 1,030 MW. Its production park includes thermal (ChilcaUno, Ilo 1 and 2) and hydro (Yuncan) power. With the implementation of its two new projects, the Quitaracsa I hydroelectric power plant and the conversion of the ChilcaUno thermal power plant to combined cycle, the company will reach a total capacity of approximately 1,412 MW by the end of 2014.
GDF SUEZ also has an 8% share in the gas transportation company Transportadora de Gas del Perú.
(END) INT/EEP
Publicado: 19/4/2010