El Quemado Solar Farm Begins Operations in Mendoza
Argentine power producer YPF Luz announced on December 24, 2025, the commercial operation of the first 100-megawatt (MW) phase of its El Quemado solar farm in the province of Mendoza. This significant development effectively doubles the company's installed solar generation capacity, reinforcing its commitment to renewable energy in Argentina.
The El Quemado project is poised to become the largest photovoltaic facility in Argentina, with a planned total installed capacity of 305 MW. The remaining capacity is scheduled to be brought online in stages throughout the first half of 2026.
Strategic Location and Investment
Located in the Las Heras department, approximately 53 kilometers from the city of Mendoza and 13 kilometers from Jocolí, the solar farm benefits from high solar radiation conditions. The project represents an estimated investment of around 210 million USD. It is being developed in collaboration with EMESA (Empresa Mendocina de Energía).
The El Quemado solar farm is notable for being the first renewable energy development to commence operations under Argentina's Large Investment Incentive Regime (RIGI). This framework is designed to attract significant investments in strategic sectors, including renewable energy.
Technological Features and Environmental Impact
The facility spans an area of 350 hectares for its initial phase, with the full project covering over 600 hectares. It incorporates over 510,000 bifacial photovoltaic panels, which are designed to capture sunlight from both sides, optimizing energy generation. The plant is expected to operate with an estimated capacity factor of 31.4%.
Upon full completion, the El Quemado solar farm is projected to generate enough electricity to meet the annual consumption needs of more than 233,000 households. This output is equivalent to the combined demand of the city of Mendoza and the neighboring departments of Las Heras and Lavalle. Furthermore, the project is anticipated to prevent the emission of over 385,000 tons of carbon dioxide annually.
Contribution to National Grid and YPF Luz's Portfolio
The electricity generated by El Quemado is injected into the Argentine Interconnected System (SADI), the country's national transmission grid, through a newly constructed 220/33 kilovolt transformer substation. This integration strengthens Argentina's energy infrastructure and increases the proportion of clean energy in the national mix.
The El Quemado solar farm represents YPF Luz's seventh renewable energy development. With this new phase, YPF Luz's total installed generation capacity stands at 3.5 GW, with plans to expand to 3.8 GW by 2026, including over 1 GW from renewable sources. The company's CEO, Martín Mandarano, stated that the project 'reflects our commitment to the development of the country's energy matrix' and will 'supply renewable energy to various Argentine industries.'
6 Comments
Leonardo
The investment in bifacial technology is forward-thinking and boosts Argentina's renewable footprint. However, relying heavily on a single large project in one region might not be the most resilient strategy for national energy security; decentralization could offer more stability.
Raphael
It's great to see an increase in renewable energy capacity and CO2 reduction, but we need to ensure these large-scale projects don't negatively impact local biodiversity or land use. A balanced approach is key for long-term sustainability.
Leonardo
While the El Quemado farm is a positive step towards diversifying Argentina's energy matrix and attracting investment through RIGI, it's important to scrutinize the long-term economic implications of such incentive regimes. We need to ensure fiscal responsibility alongside environmental gains.
Donatello
Great investment in sustainable power. Reducing CO2 emissions is crucial.
Leonardo
This project will power many households and reduce emissions, which is excellent. However, a 31.4% capacity factor highlights solar's intermittency, meaning we still need robust grid infrastructure and backup solutions to ensure consistent power supply.
Eugene Alta
YPF Luz, an oil company, doing 'green' projects. Sounds like greenwashing to me.