Electric Power: The week in 10 stories

ARGENTINA

The power under-secretariat authorized the participation of two wind power companies as generation agents in the wholesale electricity market (MEM).

BRAZIL

British private equity firm Actis acquired Brazilian wind projects totaling 197MW of capacity from France's Voltalia.

CHILE

Environmental authorities approved non-conventional renewable energy (NCRE) projects submitted by Acciona and Naturgy for connection to the country's grid.

COSTA RICA

State power utility CNFL launched operations of what is touted as Central America's first rapid charging station for electric vehicles.

COLOMBIA

The Andean country will boast 1.5GW of non-conventional renewable energy (NCRE) capacity by 2022 under plans outlined by the mining and energy ministry.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Energy authorities approved solar resource studies for a 50MW photovoltaic project in Montecristi province.

ECUADOR

Local authorities confirmed the award of a contract to develop the 50MW Minas de Huascachaca wind farm, which will straddle the provinces of Azuay and Loja.

MEXICO

State-run utility CFE postponed the schedule for its US$1.2bn Yautepec-Ixtepec transmission line tender.

PANAMA

Public services regulator Asep opened consultation on proposed changes of purchase rules for the wholesale electricity market due to growing demand, a greater number of power producers and changes in generation technologies.

PARAGUAY

State power company Ande said it requires US$2.3bn over 10 years to improve distribution.