La Pimienta, an Atlas Renewable Energy solar power plant in Mexico is now fully operational.
A large-scale project
La Pimienta is located in the state of Campeche, Mexico. The solar plant has a capacity of 300MW, making it the second largest solar plant in the country. As such, it will provide energy under a 15-year contract.
The objective of the La Pimienta solar power plant is to meet the electricity needs of the Yucatan Peninsula. The site consists of over one million solar panels, spread over 651 hectares. Thus, the plant will produce about 789GWh per year capable of supplying energy to more than 300,000 families.
La Pimienta represents the first large-scale investment in renewable solar energy in Campeche. The project is supported by the Inter-American Development Bank and the National Bank of Public Works and Services. MUFG Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and Société Générale are also participating in the project.
A socio-environmental consideration
Camilo Serrano, General Manager of Atlas Renewable Energy in Mexico says:
“We are very proud that our largest project to date is now fully operational. This project is very special to us, as we are able to provide clean energy to the Yucatan Peninsula and avoid the emission of over 1.7 million tons of CO2. In addition, we are able to promote unique social and environmental programs that will contribute to the well-being of the surrounding communities and the preservation of the local ecosystem.”
During the construction of La Pimienta the company implemented a series of socio-environmental programs. In addition, the construction of the solar power plant will create more than 1000 jobs for the local population.
Atlas Renewable Energy was also implementing the Carmen project. This is a program in partnership with local health authorities to make health care accessible to neighboring communities. In addition, the company supported the community with the installation of bathrooms and wood stoves for over 40 families.
Finally, the company is implementing a biodiversity program to preserve local flora and fauna. In this way, the company reinstates the local flora saved during the construction phase of the plant. In addition, it will carry out a reforestation program of 450 hectares, planning to plant nearly 100,000 specimens.
