Hydroelectric Energy in Chile, Perú and Colombia

In South America, the demand for electric power is growing exponentially. For this reason, countries like Chile, Peru, and Colombia have found an inexhaustible source of clean and renewable energy in their rivers and mountains: hydroelectric energy. This method of electricity generation offers numerous benefits but also faces significant challenges.

Hydroelectric energy has become a cornerstone for the energy future of Latin America, helping meet the growing need for electricity supply and contributing to achieving global climate goals.

Chile has stood out for its commitment to energy diversification. According to the 2023 Energy Statistical Yearbook from the National Energy Commission, Chile has an installed electricity generation capacity of 33,218 MW, 22% of which corresponds to hydroelectric energy (77 plants), contributing approximately 7,400 MW to the national electricity system.

Additionally, Chile has incorporated renewable energies such as solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal into its energy matrix. However, the implementation of hydroelectric projects faces significant challenges, including:

• Opposition from local communities and environmental groups due to environmental impacts.
• Lengthy and costly bureaucratic processes for obtaining permits.
• The effects of climate change, which have altered the planning and operation of hydroelectric projects.

The specialized underwater inspection services are particularly relevant in this context, helping mitigate environmental risks and optimize the maintenance of hydroelectric infrastructure in complex projects like these.

Colombia leads in installed hydroelectric energy capacity. According to the Energy Profile of Colombia, hydroelectric energy represented 67% of the country’s total installed capacity in 2020, equivalent to approximately 17,500 MW of generation capacity.

However, dependence on this energy source poses risks in the face of climatic events such as droughts, which can compromise the stability of the electricity supply.

In this context, our solutions based on advanced technology such as ROVs enable efficient and precise inspections of hydroelectric facilities with minimal operational interruption.

Peru has an installed hydraulic capacity of 5,941 MW, equivalent to 38.7% of its total capacity. Although smaller compared to Chile and Colombia, Peru has built 75 hydroelectric plants, demonstrating advancements in infrastructure and technical expertise in the sector.

The country complements hydroelectric energy with other sources such as thermoelectric, wind, and solar, aiming for a comprehensive approach to ensure a sustainable energy supply.

Our clients in Peru have experienced significant benefits by implementing our inspection and maintenance services to ensure their operational continuity. A notable case is our ROV inspection at the Cheves Hydroelectric Plant.

The production of hydroelectric energy in Chile, Peru, and Colombia is crucial to meeting the energy demand in Latin America. However, the success of these projects depends on the ability to overcome environmental, climatic, and technological challenges.

At ASI Group Latam, we are strategic partners for companies in the hydroelectric sector, offering advanced inspection and maintenance solutions. Using ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) and state-of-the-art technology, we conduct inspections in extreme environments with minimal disruption to operations. Our services include:

• Detailed reports to facilitate decision-making.
• Optimization in the planning and maintenance of critical assets.
• Digitalization of underwater assets.

Additionally, we support industry development through strategies that promote a sustainable and efficient approach.

At ASI Group Latam, we work with our clients to take their energy projects to the next level with innovative solutions. If you are looking to improve the efficiency and sustainability of your hydroelectric projects, contact us.