Sonnedix, the global independent solar power producer (IPP), and Collahuasi, the second largest copper mining operation in Chile and sixth largest worldwide, have signed a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) for the delivery of 150 GWh per year. The PPA is for 24/7 supply of 100% renewable energy. The PPA with Sonnedix constitutes approximately 12% of Collahuasi’s mine’s power requirements.

This agreement Sonnedix said is a demonstration of its strong commitment to ESG (Environment, Social, Governance) supporting Collahuasi to minimise its environmental impact. It represents a further expansion of Sonnedix’s presence in Chile, since it entered the electricity generating market in 2015. The company is constructing a 170 MW solar PV plant – Sonnedix Atacama Solar – in the commune of Pica (Atacama Desert) and currently has over 400 MW of utility scale solar photovoltaic projects under development, construction or in operation in the Chilean market.

“Partnerships like this help to achieve Chile’s renewable power targets. Securing a 24/7, long term, 100% renewable PPA highlights how important green power is to our customers and is testament to our sustainability commitment,” said Axel Thiemann, CEO of Sonnedix. “As Sonnedix continues its consistent growth in Chile, I look forward to working with more like-minded businesses which are equally committed to responsible, reliable and cost- effective solar energy-based solutions.”

“This agreement between Collahuasi and Sonnedix shows the environmental commitment of both companies, in line with Chile’s policies regarding using our renewable resources, in this case originated at the Atacama Desert”, highlighted Sergio del Campo, Representative Director of Sonnedix Chile.

To Eduardo Zamanillo, Mitsui's Director at  Collahuasi Copper Mine, “this agreement represents a new milestone for Collahuasi, allowing us to consolidate our transition to 100% green electricity, and the search for sustainable operations throughout our value chain. It highlights our commitment towards the environment, the development of opportunities for new actors in the national energy market, and the push for technological development such as the use of batteries for energy storage.”