Chile’s electric utility sector is facing unprecedented challenges as the country pursues its ambitious goals of generating 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and achieving a 100% zero-emissions power grid by 2050.
The shift to renewable energy, particularly solar and wind, is vital for sustainable growth but comes with significant operational hurdles. These include managing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources, modernising ageing infrastructure, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
FYLD is uniquely positioned to address these challenges. With its real-time operational visibility, AI-driven insights, and comprehensive project management tools, FYLD empowers utilities to navigate the complexities of Chile’s energy transition effectively. From optimising project spend to reducing downtime, FYLD provides the tools necessary for a smooth and sustainable shift to renewable energy.
The current energy landscape in Chile
Chile has made remarkable progress in renewable energy, with solar and wind power now accounting for 27.5% of the country’s electricity generation as of 2021—surpassing coal for the first time. This shift is supported by the country’s vast natural resources, including the Atacama Desert, which experiences some of the highest solar radiation levels globally, and Patagonia, known for its consistently strong winds. By 2030, solar power is expected to represent 30% of Chile’s total installed capacity, making it the primary energy source.
FYLD empowers utilities to manage renewable energy projects more efficiently by providing unparalleled site visibility, which is crucial for cutting costs and boosting productivity. With real-time insights into on-site activities, FYLD reduces downtime and minimises unnecessary site visits by enabling managers to monitor progress remotely and address issues as they arise. This enhanced visibility ensures that resources are allocated effectively, leading to significant operational efficiencies. As a result, utilities can maintain a stable and reliable energy supply even as the share of renewables continues to grow.
The need for infrastructure modernisation
Chile’s transmission and distribution (T&D) networks are under pressure to support the increasing share of renewable energy. The country has committed to significant infrastructural expansions, planning to add over 4,000 km of new transmission lines and more than 6,000 MVA of substation capacity by 2031. However, these expansions are complicated by the ageing infrastructure currently in place and the geographical challenges posed by Chile’s diverse landscape.
FYLD offers critical support in modernising Chile’s energy infrastructure. With real-time visibility and site evidencing tools, FYLD allows utilities to prioritise and address infrastructure issues proactively. This proactive approach not only enhances the reliability and efficiency of T&D networks but also reduces the risk of outages, ensuring that the energy grid can meet the demands of a growing and diversifying energy mix.
Saesa, one of Chile’s leading utility companies, has already begun deploying FYLD nationwide, with a strong focus on enhancing safety protocols across its operations. In Chile’s energy sector, safety is paramount due to the inherent risks associated with electrical infrastructure, which can lead to significant externalities, affecting not only the workers but also the surrounding communities.
The industry’s high safety standards are crucial in preventing this and ensuring the reliable operation of the energy grid. FYLD supports these safety efforts by providing real-time visibility into on-site activities and leveraging AI-driven risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards before they escalate.
Navigating Chile’s regulatory environment
Chile’s energy sector is governed by a robust regulatory framework aimed at promoting sustainability and environmental protection. The country’s long-term energy planning (PELP 2023–27) emphasises the need for a resilient electrical system to support the integration of renewable energy sources. As Chile continues to phase out coal power, with several plants scheduled for closure by 2025, the regulatory landscape becomes increasingly complex, making compliance a critical challenge for utility companies.
FYLD simplifies regulatory compliance by providing an audit trail and streamlining the reporting process. This capability reduces the administrative burden on utility companies, allowing them to focus on their core operations while ensuring they meet all necessary standards. This is crucial as Chile continues to expand its renewable energy infrastructure under stringent regulatory oversight.
Maximising ROI in the renewable energy transition
With over 4,700 MW of renewable energy capacity under construction as of 2022, predominantly in solar and wind, Chile is making significant investments in its energy future . However, ensuring that these projects are completed on time and within budget is critical to maximising return on investment (ROI).
FYLD optimises project execution and resource allocation through its AI-driven platform, helping utilities reduce unnecessary expenditures and maximise ROI. This ensures that renewable energy projects are not only successful but also financially sustainable, allowing utilities to reinvest savings into further modernisation efforts and continue driving the energy transition forward.
A catalyst for Chile’s sustainable energy future
The pressing need for an expanded and modernised energy infrastructure in Chile calls for innovative solutions that prioritise efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. FYLD’s platform is the catalyst for this transformation, offering the tools and insights needed to overcome the challenges of the renewable energy transition.
Interested in learning how FYLD can transform your utility operations and accelerate Chile’s renewable energy transition? Request a free demo today to see how FYLD can empower your utility to meet the demands of a sustainable energy future.
