Peru: Government to promote new renewable energy projects

Photo: ANDINA/Ministry of Energy and Mines of Peru

Photo: ANDINA/Ministry of Energy and Mines of Peru

13:30 | Lima, Aug. 20.

In order to strengthen the work articulated with the private sector, Energy-Mines Minister Ivan Merino met with ENGIE Energía Perú General Manager Rik de Buyserie, with whom he discussed the situation of the energy sector and exchanged proposals for the sustainable development of investments in this sphere.

During the event, held on Thursday at Minem (Ministry) headquarters, the Cabinet member explained that his administration promotes a new pact involving the Peruvian State, companies, and civil society by implementing the social profitability criterion for projects.

This entails an assessment to identify and promote best practices in the private sector, as well as the economic and social development of areas where the activity is carried out.

The high-ranking official pointed out that the Executive Branch will implement initiatives that allow the arrival of more investments in the energy sector so that they contribute to the total electrification of rural areas, thus improving the life quality of vulnerable citizens.

The minister also remarked that his portfolio will boost the development of energy generation projects with Non-Conventional Renewable Energy Resources to favor a progressive change of the Peruvian energy matrix with environment-friendly sources, such as wind or solar energy, among others.

On his part, De Buyserie expressed his support for the Government's initiatives to promote investments under the criterion of Social Profitability, seeking the development of those regions where the projects are developed.

He also stressed that the company's aim is to contribute to a transition towards a carbon-neutral economy nationwide, offering low-carbon electricity generation, by virtue of the use of renewable energy and modern infrastructure.

In this sense, the agreement signed between ENGIE and Anglo American was highlighted. It seeks to convert the total energy supply of its Quellaveco Project in Moquegua region (187 MW) to 100% renewable energy, thereby contributing to environment protection.

It should be noted that the energy required for this project will emerge —in part— from the future Punta Lomitas Wind Power Plant (Ica region), whose final concession for construction was granted to ENGIE by Minem in March 2021.

(END) NDP/CNA/JJN/MVB

Published: 8/20/2021