ANLA Approves 200 MW Ariguaní Solar Park In Cesar, Developed By Xuenergy FV, Advancing Renewable Energy In Colombia

The National Environmental Licensing Authority (ANLA) has granted an environmental license for the Ariguaní Solar Park Project, a 200 MW renewable energy initiative, after confirming that the project meets all technical and regulatory requirements. The approval also verified the feasibility of the proposed environmental management measures, allowing the project to move forward in compliance with current regulations.

The Ariguaní Solar Park, developed by Xuenergy FV S.A.S., is located in Los Cerrajones village, Chiriguaná municipality, in the Cesar department. The project consists of a photovoltaic plant with a peak capacity of 250 MWp and a nominal capacity of 200 MWac, designed to generate electricity from solar energy.

The environmental licensing decision followed a thorough technical and environmental analysis, which determined that the project is environmentally viable. Identified environmental impacts were found to be preventable, mitigable, and manageable through the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures and the Biotic Component Compensation Plan, located in the Bajo Cesar sub-watershed within the Magdalena-Cauca watershed area.

From the design stage, the project incorporated a hierarchy of mitigation strategies by avoiding interventions in natural and semi-natural ecosystems of ecological significance. Construction and operational activities were focused instead on grasslands, wooded grasslands, and forest plantations. The project also ensured active participation from local communities within its area of influence. According to the Directorate of the National Authority for Prior Consultation (DANCP), a prior consultation process was not required for this project.

With this licensing decision, ANLA concluded 2025 on a strong note for projects generating Non-Conventional Renewable Energy Sources (FNCER), having approved a total of twelve projects expected to contribute approximately 2,326 MW to the national energy grid. The Authority has stated that it will continue its work in 2026 to promote environmental sustainability through rigorous, transparent, and participatory management of renewable energy projects.