New Hampshire, U.S.A. -- Chile is built for renewable energy. The seemingly unending coastline that runs the length of its boundary is prime real estate for wind development, and eventually the offshore wind projects, that could power the cities found along its spine. The nation's solar resources, especially in the northern regions, are among the best in the world. And its place along the ring of fire means its geothermal potential is vast, yet untapped.
It’s with these resources in mind that some are questioning the nation’s energy plan, which will focus on an increase in hydropower from its current 35 percent of the energy mix to 50 percent. While the increase may be necessary to combat the supply volatility of imported natural gas, others argue that it is putting too much of an emphasis on hydropower, which itself can go through supply constraints during periods of drought.
More than anything, critics are wondering why the nation isn’t moving more aggressively toward the renewable sources it has had all along. One positive development this week for those backing renewable energy efforts in the nation was the announcement that the 115-MW wind development 400 miles north of Santiago was ready to begin construction.
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