LONGi and Erco Energía Win “Outstanding Project Award 2024” for Pioneering Solar Innovation in Colombia

LONGi, a global leader in photovoltaic manufacturing, and Erco Energía, a leading renewable energy company in Colombia, have been honored with the “Outstanding Project Award 2024” at the BRICS Industrial Innovation Contest. The recognition highlights their groundbreaking Back-Contact (BC) technology utility photovoltaic power plant project – the first of its kind in Latin America.

The BRICS Industrial Innovation Contest is a prestigious platform designed to foster industrial transformation and technological advancement within BRICS nations. The contest identifies innovative energy solutions that contribute to the global transition toward sustainable power.

Award-Winning Photovoltaic Projects in Colombia

The Guamo and Numbana solar plants, located in the Tolima department of Colombia, were first shortlisted in August 2024 before securing the Outstanding Project Award in the final competition in September 2024. These projects together generate approximately 20MW of clean energy—9MW from Guamo and 9.9MW from Numbana—producing 44GWh annually, enough to power 30,500 homes with reliable renewable energy.

Back-Contact (BC) Technology: Pioneering Efficiency and Innovation

In 2023, LONGi announced its strategic commitment to BC cell technology, allocating significant resources to research and development. Over 1,000 experts are dedicated to enhancing BC technology, and LONGi has applied for 120 invention patents to strengthen its position as a leader in this field.

LONGi’s BC technology offers superior efficiency, reliability, and economic viability. Its adaptability for various applications enhances its competitiveness in the global photovoltaic market, positioning it as a game-changer in solar energy solutions.

Sustainability and Social Impact in Tolima

Beyond clean energy production, the Guamo and Numbana projects stand out for their sustainable approach. By integrating 50 sheep for natural vegetation control under the solar modules, the initiative eliminates excessive growth without the need for mechanical maintenance, supporting biodiversity.

Moreover, the project promotes social inclusion by training and employing local women for grazing and animal care, fostering economic development and gender equity within the region. This innovative dual-purpose model combines renewable energy generation with sustainable livestock farming, setting a benchmark for future energy projects.

LONGi and Erco Energía remain committed to driving innovation in the photovoltaic sector while fostering sustainable and inclusive development in Latin America and beyond.