06 Jan 2025
Innergex Leads Renewable Energy Innovation in Chile
Innergex Chile, a key player in renewable energy, has successfully implemented its first Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the PV Salvador solar plant in Chile’s Atacama Desert. This groundbreaking project enhances the plant’s operational capacity with 50 MW/250 MWh of storage, enabling solar power generated during the day to be stored for use during peak demand at night. The BESS optimizes energy distribution, strengthens Chile’s National Electric System, and provides reliable energy for over 44,000 homes, significantly contributing to the country’s energy transition.
Transforming PV Salvador with Advanced Energy Storage
Originally commissioned in 2014, PV Salvador spans 138 hectares and includes 160,000 photovoltaic modules that generate 68 MW of AC power annually. Integrating the BESS required a complex upgrade of the existing infrastructure, adding 116 battery containers and four auxiliary equipment containers. This innovation ensures seamless operation between the solar plant and the energy storage system, delivering optimal performance and efficiency.
Strategic Partnerships for Seamless Integration
Innergex partnered with N3uron, a cutting-edge IIoT and DataOps platform, and Trekkor, an experienced system integrator specializing in renewable energy projects. N3uron was chosen for its scalability, open standards, and multiprotocol compatibility, enabling seamless integration across diverse systems and brands.
Key achievements included:
• Migrating PV Salvador’s substation SCADA system to N3uron.
• Integrating the new Master Power Plant Controller (PPC) using Modbus.
• Ensuring compliance with Chile’s regulatory requirements through real-time data exchange with the Coordinador Eléctrico Nacional (CEN).
• Integrating the BESS SCADA system with N3uron via OPC UA to enhance monitoring and control capabilities.
Centralized Remote Control for Enhanced Operations
A centralized remote control center was deployed in the cloud, managing over 70,000 tags and consolidating operations across Innergex’s assets. Leveraging N3uron’s REST API Server and Data Exporter modules, the platform integrates seamlessly with third-party applications like Snowflake for data warehousing. This approach supports real-time decision-making, streamlines operations, and ensures compliance with operational and regulatory requirements.
Accelerated Implementation with Modular and Open Design
N3uron’s open and modular architecture significantly reduced project implementation time compared to alternative solutions. Its ability to bridge IT and OT systems and handle large data volumes ensured the project met the demanding requirements of Innergex’s first BESS in Chile. This scalable solution also lays the foundation for future projects, including the San Andrés energy storage facility, which will provide 35 MW/175 MWh of storage.
A Milestone in Chile’s Energy Transition
“The N3uron solution has transformed our operations, allowing us to save valuable time and resources. Its flexibility and scalability make it an essential part of our digital transformation strategy,” said Jorge Galindo, Head of IT/OT at Innergex Chile. Collaboration with Trekkor further ensured the project’s success, leveraging their expertise in renewable energy solutions. This project demonstrates Innergex’s leadership in renewable energy innovation and N3uron’s capabilities in addressing the complex demands of energy storage systems. By enhancing grid reliability and sustainability, this initiative represents a significant contribution to Chile’s energy transition, setting a benchmark for similar projects in the region and beyond.
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