Spanish renewable energy producer Ecoener has launched commercial operations at its El Carrizo photovoltaic plant, with a capacity of 74.7 megawatts-peak (MWp), located in the Escuintla department of Guatemala. This commissioning brings Ecoener’s total operational capacity to over 500 MW, marking a 47% increase compared to the previous year.
El Carrizo is now the largest solar plant in the country, spanning 112 hectares and equipped with more than 137,000 photovoltaic modules. It will generate approximately 157 gigawatt-hours (GWh) annually, which will be sold under a ten-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
Strengthened presence in Guatemala’s energy mix
With this project, Ecoener consolidates its position as the leading Spanish investor in Guatemala’s energy sector. Since 2024, the group has invested a total of €116 million ($125mn) in the country, focused on the Yolanda and El Carrizo solar plants, with a combined capacity of 148.4 MWp. These assets are complemented by the 14.2 MW Las Fuentes hydroelectric plant, in operation since 2016.
The El Carrizo plant was financed through a loan provided by Grupo Financiero BAC, a financial institution operating in Central America. This financing structure ensures the project’s long-term viability while securing a stable return on investment through the supply contract.
Economic impact and local integration
The construction of El Carrizo generated over 280 jobs, 46% of which were filled by workers from local communities. Around one third of the positions were filled by women, reflecting a regionally integrated employment dynamic.
According to data provided by the developer, the plant will supply approximately 39,250 households per year. Its production capacity is expected to avoid an estimated 58,090 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually and reduce the consumption of 13,502 tonnes of fossil fuels, although these indicators are provided for operational purposes and not under regulatory standards.
