Ecopetrol Completes Construction of Latin America’s First Solar Plant in Cartagena Refinery

Ecopetrol, the state oil company, has announced the successful completion of its 22.1 MW solar plant situated in the Cartagena Refinery, located in the district of the same name within the department of Bolívar. This landmark project marks not only Ecopetrol’s inaugural solar venture but also stands as the first of its kind within a refinery in Latin America.

The solar plant, spanning an area of 19.9 hectares, boasts a deployment of 40,146 panels. The operational launch will occur in two phases: initially with 4 MW and subsequently reaching its full capacity.

Upon reaching full operational capacity, the plant is projected to generate 34.4 GWh annually, equivalent to powering 18,200 homes in Colombia. This energy output will seamlessly integrate into the operations of the Refinery, effectively replacing gas-based self-generation.

Notably, the construction of the plant engaged 370 workers from the Caribbean region, with half of them being women. Ecopetrol emphasizes their commitment to gender-inclusive employment, citing that many of these workers received training in solar panel installation and photovoltaic energy generation through courses supported by the company.

The final works ceremony witnessed the participation of key figures including Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Ecopetrol President Ricardo Roa Barragán, and Minister of Mines and Energy Andrés Camacho Morales, alongside other dignitaries and officials.