The Horizonte wind farm, operated by Chilean company Colbún, has officially entered its commercial operation phase after completing technical tests required by the Coordinador Eléctrico Nacional (National Electrical Coordinator). Located in the commune of Taltal, Antofagasta region, the project becomes the largest wind farm ever commissioned in Chile.
A phased deployment in two stages
Grid connection was carried out in two phases: the northern section of the site began injecting energy into the Sistema Eléctrico Nacional (National Electric System) on June 2, followed by the southern section on September 2. The project was inaugurated in March, but ramp-up was gradual through a series of technical validations defined by regulatory authorities.
Horizonte consists of 140 wind turbines and an installed capacity of 816 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest wind power projects in Latin America. According to data provided by Colbún, the site was selected for its consistent wind conditions, enabling stable energy output and efficient integration into the national grid.
Consolidated capacity and portfolio expansion
With this project, Colbún brings its installed wind capacity to 1,055 MW, reinforcing its presence in the electricity generation sector from renewable sources. Horizonte’s development required four years of planning and three years of construction, involving both local and international technical teams.
The wind farm is located in a desert area, allowing for land use optimisation and limited urban constraints. The electricity produced is transmitted via a high-voltage line built specifically for the project.
A site designed for extreme conditions
Horizonte was developed to operate under severe weather conditions, common in northern Chile. Installed equipment, including turbines and foundation structures, was designed to withstand high wind loads year-round.
The site’s configuration and autonomous grid connection were developed to strengthen supply security in a region of the country with limited interconnection. This project contributes to expanding electricity production infrastructure in northern Chile, supporting the growing energy demand of a local industry in development.
