Benefits of Project
The Solar Park La Loma, located in the Cesar department of Colombia, is currently the largest photovoltaic park in the country. With an installed capacity of 187 megawatts (MW) in direct current, this plant features over 400,000 solar panels distributed across an area of approximately 388 hectares. It is estimated to generate around 420 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of renewable energy annually, enough to supply electricity to nearly 600,000 Colombians.
The construction of the park required an investment of approximately $126 million and created over 1,700 jobs, about 75% of which were filled by residents of the Cesar department, particularly from the villages of Potrerillo and La Loma.
From a technological standpoint, the park uses bifacial solar panels that allow energy absorption on both sides, improving efficiency. These panels are mounted on an automatic solar tracking system (tracker) that enables them to adjust according to the sun’s movement, optimizing energy capture throughout the day.
In addition to its energy contribution, the project has implemented various shared-value initiatives with the local community. In collaboration with the National Learning Service (SENA), training courses were offered to nearly 300 people in areas such as chainsaw operation, brush cutter use, civil works, beekeeping, and solar panel assembly. Thanks to these training programs, 17 community members established their own honey production business by setting up the country’s first two solar-powered apiaries, located in the park’s conservation areas