José Tomás Pinto
Business administrator · Energía Futura
Articles by José Tomás Pinto
Chile's lithium exports rise 165% to US$5.17 billion through October; copper reaches US$54.66 billion
Chile's lithium exports totaled US$5,171 million between January and October 2026, up 165%, and copper reached US$54,655 million at an average price of US$6.14 per pound, according to Subrei. Mining shipments grew 22.1% and goods exports topped US$100 billion for the first time.
Xbox Series X and Series S: power consumption, cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
An Xbox Series X draws 154 W on average while gaming and a Series S 74 W, according to Microsoft's measurements: about CLP 39 and CLP 19 per hour with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Sleep mode adds about CLP 2,000 a month; energy-saving shutdown, less than CLP 70. Comparison with the PS5 and Switch 2.
Beverage cooler (visicooler): power consumption, monthly cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose for a store
A single-door beverage cooler uses between 0.8 and 3.4 kWh a day according to Ventus data sheets: between CLP 6,126 and CLP 26,375 a month with the kWh at CLP 255.27. Fan-cooled models use up to 81% more than static ones, and inverter models save up to CLP 20,000 a month. Table of 17 models with prices.
Electric pizza oven: power consumption, cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
An electric pizza oven draws between 1,600 and 3,000 W: an hour at full power costs between CLP 408 and CLP 766 with the kWh at CLP 255.27. A 2,000 W oven costs at most CLP 85 per pizza in a six-pizza session. Prices in Chile, consumption versus a kitchen oven and how to spend less.
Chile has the third most expensive commercial electricity rate in Latin America, according to Osinergmin
Peruvian regulator Osinergmin's Latin American Electricity Tariffs report for the third quarter of 2026 ranks Chile third for commercial rates (US$0.2409/kWh) and third for 65 kWh households (US$0.2345/kWh), behind Colombia, Panama, Uruguay and El Salvador.
Chile's CNE sets stabilized prices for small generators: midday energy is worth CLP 0.2 and the market band adds CLP 38 per kWh
Chile's National Energy Commission approved the final report on stabilized prices for small distributed generators (PMGD): the average basic price fell to CLP 23.666/kWh, 74.5% below the market price, and the band mechanism adds CLP 38.376/kWh. Between 8 am and 4 pm, energy is worth less than CLP 1 per kWh almost everywhere.
Waffle maker: how much electricity it uses, what it costs in Chilean pesos and which one to buy
A waffle maker draws between 600 and 1,400 W and costs from CLP 9,990 in Chile. With electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh, a 21-minute session at 1,000 W costs at most CLP 89. Prices of 18 models, hourly cost, mini, Belgian or commercial, and how to use less power.
Juicer: how much electricity it uses, what it costs in Chilean pesos and which to buy, centrifugal or cold press
A centrifugal juicer draws 500 to 800 W and a cold-press juicer 150 to 250 W, but a litre of juice costs almost the same in electricity: about CLP 6. Prices of 19 machines in Chile, from CLP 6,990, and which one to choose.
Ice cream maker: how much electricity it uses, what it costs in Chilean pesos and which to buy, Ninja CREAMi, soft serve or compressor
A freezer-bowl ice cream maker draws 12 W and a Ninja CREAMi 800 W, but each batch costs CLP 12 to 28. Prices in Chile from CLP 14,990, what a commercial soft-serve machine costs per day (CLP 6,126) and which one to choose.
Chile's Chamber of Deputies asks to expand Casa Solar, the program that co-finances home solar panels
Chile's Chamber of Deputies approved a resolution asking the President for more budget and coverage for Casa Solar, the Ministry of Energy program that co-finances 1 and 2 kWp systems. Its second call added up to 654 projects and 1,093 kWp in 12 regions.
Atlas Renewable Energy files a US$160 million Kimal line and battery plan for Alfa Solar in Chile
Atlas Renewable Energy submitted for environmental review a modification of its Alfa Solar plant in María Elena that adds a 2x220 kV line to the Kimal substation, a step-up substation and a BESS Sur battery system, with an investment of US$160 million.
Solar lights: how they work, how many hours they last, which to choose and prices in Chile
Solar lights cost from CLP 3,990 for a Christmas string and CLP 6,990 for a garden light in Chile. How many hours they last by city and season, why they fail in winter, what a "1000 W" floodlight really means and which one suits a garden, security or Christmas.
Power bank: how many charges it gives, which to choose, flight rules and prices in Chile
A 20,000 mAh power bank stores 74 Wh and charges a 5,000 mAh phone about 2.5 times, because roughly a third is lost in conversion. Prices in Chile from CLP 8,990, what a recharge costs and the new 2026 rules for taking one on a plane.
Nintendo Switch 2: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and how it compares with the PS5
The Nintendo Switch 2 draws 19 W while gaming on the TV, according to Nintendo: about CLP 5 an hour at CLP 255.27 per kWh and CLP 291 a month playing two hours a day. Sleep mode with wired LAN can cost more than playing. Comparison with the original Switch, the OLED and the PS5.
Chile's CNE expects 12,394 MWh of new batteries in 2027, and storage would top 20,000 MWh
Chile's National Energy Commission projects that 12,394 MWh of storage will connect to the power system in 2027, mostly BESS batteries. March alone accounts for 3,785 MWh. At September 30 there were 3,702 MW of storage under construction and 3,459 MW in testing.
Chile's SEC fines Frontel, Codiner, Saesa and CGE Transmisión over 586 million pesos in La Araucanía
The SEC's La Araucanía office fined four power companies for maintenance deficiencies and for failing to follow the rules for electro-dependent customers. The fines total 8,100 UTM, over 586 million pesos. The charges stemmed from July's frontal system, which left 215,806 customers without power.
Electric treadmill: how much electricity it uses, what it costs in Chilean pesos and which to choose
An electric treadmill draws between 240 and 600 W depending on speed: an hour of walking costs about CLP 61 and an hour running at 12 km/h about CLP 123, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Monthly cost by routine, what motor HP means and prices in Chile from CLP 117,990.
Thermomix: how much electricity it uses, what it costs in Chilean pesos and its price in Chile (TM7 and TM6)
The Thermomix has 1,500 W of total power: a 500 W motor and 1,000 W of heating. A 25-minute soup costs at most CLP 106 with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. The TM7 costs CLP 1,940,000 in Chile and the TM6 CLP 1,597,000. Monthly cost by use.
Wine cooler: how much electricity it uses, what it costs in Chilean pesos and which to choose (thermoelectric or compressor)
An electric wine cooler uses between 75 and 144 kWh a year according to manufacturers' labels: CLP 19,145 to CLP 36,759 a year with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Thermoelectric vs compressor, monthly cost and prices in Chile from CLP 109,990.
The largest flow battery in the world 2026: ranking of the biggest flow batteries
The world's largest flow battery is in Jimusar, Xinjiang (China): 200 MW and 1,000 MWh, in full operation since 31 December 2025 with Rongke Power technology. Ranking of the largest in operation, map and projects under construction.
Chile's power prices below US$5 now cover 75% of early-morning hours, and batteries over 80% of the evening peak
In October 2026, 74.7% of early-morning hours north of the Charrúa node had marginal costs below US$5/MWh, up from 2.8% a year earlier, according to Aclai. Batteries already supply over 80% of the energy in the evening peak, according to Acera and SPEC.
El Pelícano Solar places US$129 million in notes for an 82 MW battery, Chile's first BESS financed in the capital markets
El Pelícano Solar Company, an Actis subsidiary, placed US$129.58 million in senior secured notes at 7.578%, maturing in 2044, to build an 82 MW, four-hour BESS next to its solar plant in La Higuera, which supplies the Santiago Metro.
Chile's Coquimbo approves two solar projects in Limarí for US$91.6 million: Soles del Norte grows to 220 MW
Coquimbo's Environmental Assessment Commission approved the expansion of FRV's Soles del Norte solar park, which grows from 120 MW to 219.99 MWp in Ovalle (US$78.4 million), and the Solar Monte Patria III plant, 6.39 MW with batteries (US$13.2 million).
Sewing machine: how much power it uses, what it costs in Chile and which to buy (home, overlock or industrial)
A home sewing machine draws between 50 and 90 W: sewing for an hour costs CLP 13 to 23 with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Monthly cost by use, how much overlock and industrial machines consume, and prices in Chile from CLP 124,990.
PlayStation 5 power consumption: how much it costs in Chile gaming and in rest mode
A PS5 draws about 217 W while gaming, according to Sony: CLP 55 per hour with electricity at CLP 255.27 and about CLP 3,321 a month gaming two hours a day. The PS5 Pro uses the same. What rest mode adds and how it compares with the Switch 2.
Wifi router: how much power it uses, what it costs per month in Chile and whether to switch it off at night
A home wifi router draws 5 to 10 W: CLP 919 to 1,838 a month if left on all day, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Switching it off at night saves about CLP 600 a month. What fibre ONTs, 5G routers and Starlink, which reaches 100 W, cost to run.
Largest vanadium producers in the world 2026: country ranking, reserves and role in flow batteries
China produced 82,000 tonnes of vanadium in 2025, about three quarters of the world total of 110,000, according to the USGS. Russia is second and Brazil overtook South Africa for third place. Ranking, reserves, prices and its use in flow batteries.
Albemarle triples its EBITDA on US$20 lithium and Chile's lithium payments to Corfo top US$1.1 billion
Albemarle earned US$296.8 million in the third quarter of 2026 and its adjusted EBITDA rose 186%, with a realized price of US$20.02 per kilo of lithium carbonate equivalent. In Chile, payments from Novandino and Albemarle to Corfo exceeded US$1.1 billion between January and September.
Electric bed warmer: how much power it uses, what it costs in Chile and which to buy (single, double or king)
A double electric bed warmer draws 120 W: about CLP 31 an hour and under CLP 1,000 a month if used for one hour a day to warm the bed, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Prices in Chile from CLP 28,990, power by model and how to choose.
Portable solar panel: prices in Chile, how much it generates and which to choose for camping or power cuts
A 100 W portable solar panel costs between CLP 159,990 and CLP 265,000 in Chile and generates about 0.5 kWh a day in Santiago, according to PVGIS: 0.59 kWh in January and 0.35 kWh in June. Prices from 40 to 400 W, output in 8 cities and how to choose one.
Largest silicon producers in the world 2026: ranking by country and the metal behind solar panels
China produced 7.5 million tonnes of contained silicon in 2025, 78% of the world total of 9.6 million, according to the USGS. Russia, Brazil and Norway trail far behind. Ranking of ferrosilicon and silicon metal, prices and why this material shapes the solar panel market.
Solar water heater: prices in Chile, how much it saves and what size to choose (100, 150, 200 or 300 litres)
A 200-litre solar water heater costs between CLP 370,000 and CLP 420,000 in Chile as an unpressurised model and about CLP 740,000 to 790,000 as a pressurised one. It can cover 50% to 70% of hot water needs and save CLP 21,000 to 30,000 a month versus an electric heater for a family of four.
Washer dryer: how much electricity it uses, cost per cycle in Chile and whether it beats two machines
A washer dryer uses about 2.7 kWh for a full wash-and-dry cycle, about CLP 680 at CLP 255.27 per kWh, and only 0.7 kWh (CLP 176) if it just washes. Prices in Chile from CLP 243,000, monthly consumption and a comparison with a separate washer and dryer.
Chile court upholds 1,000 UTM fine on CGE for replacing 1,800 electricity meters without verification
The Santiago Court of Appeals rejected CGE's challenge and upheld the 1,000 UTM fine, about CLP 72.4 million, imposed by Chile's power regulator SEC for replacing some 1,800 meters in the Biobío Region without the technical verification required by the rules, swapping more than 5,000 that were within range and changing the registered holder of 4,553 devices.
Energy storage in Chile reaches 11.3 GW across operating, testing and under-construction batteries
Chile has 11.3 GW of energy storage across systems in operation (3.4 GW), in testing (3.1 GW) and under construction (5.1 GW), according to renewables association ACERA. 84% is in the north, about 20 GW have environmental approval and batteries already cover around 80% of the growth in peak-hour energy.
Humidifier: how much electricity it uses, what it costs in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A 23 W ultrasonic humidifier costs about CLP 1,400 a month running 8 hours every night, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. A 260 W warm mist model costs more than CLP 15,900. Power use by type (ultrasonic, evaporative and steam), cost per hour and which one makes sense.
Range hood: how much electricity it uses, what it costs in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A 110 W range hood costs about CLP 840 a month used one hour a day, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh; a 280 W one, about CLP 2,140. Power use of real models, ducted versus ductless hoods, the heat lost through the duct and which one to choose.
3D printer: how much electricity it uses, cost per print in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A Bambu Lab A1 mini 3D printer averages 80 W printing PLA: about CLP 20 per hour with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. A 5-hour print on a P1S costs about CLP 134 in electricity. Measured power use of 7 models, filament versus resin, standby consumption and how to cut it.
Largest battery gigafactory in the world 2026: ranking of the biggest cell factories
CATL's Ningde hub in China ended 2025 with 330 GWh of annual cell capacity, and its Yibin base reached 175.8 GWh. Ranking of the world's largest battery gigafactories, including Hungary, Poland and the United States, and why China holds more than 80% of capacity.
Chile's regulator SEC files charges against Luz del Norte solar plant over frequency control and communications failures
Chile's Superintendency of Electricity and Fuels filed two charges against Luz del Norte, the 141 MW solar plant near Copiapó, after a complaint by the grid operator: it ran with a 16% droop instead of 4% and its communications failed 97 times in two days. The company has 15 business days to respond.
Five companies owe 167 million pesos in Chile's public service charge and the grid operator reports them to SEC
Chile's grid operator told the SEC that five companies owed CLP 167.4 million in the public service charge as of October 27, 2026. The charge funds the grid operator, the Panel of Experts and the Tariff Stabilization Fund. The amount is 70% lower than in August. Who they are and what it means.
Blender: how much electricity it uses, what it costs in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A 1,100 W blender costs about CLP 4.7 per minute of use and around CLP 140 a month if used one minute a day, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Power and prices of 10 models sold in Chile (Oster, Ninja, Moulinex, Mademsa), cost per smoothie and which power to choose.
Stand mixer or hand mixer: how much electricity it uses, what it costs in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A 250 W hand mixer costs about CLP 11 per 10 minutes of use and a 1,000 W stand mixer about CLP 43, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Power and prices of 12 models sold in Chile (Oster, Thomas, KitchenAid, Maigas, Bosch), cost per recipe and which to choose.
Pool pump and filter: how much electricity they use, monthly cost in Chilean pesos and what size to choose
A 0.75 HP pool pump draws about 790 W and costs around CLP 36,300 a month if it filters 6 hours a day, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh: it can use more than an entire home. What each size costs, how many hours to filter and how to cut consumption by up to 75%.
Grenergy files Pampa del Desierto for environmental review: 518 MWp of solar and 3,010 MWh of batteries in María Elena
Spain's Grenergy has submitted the Pampa del Desierto photovoltaic park in María Elena, Chile, to environmental review: 518.7 MWp of solar, a 430 MW / 3,010 MWh battery system with seven hours of storage and an estimated investment of US$520 million. It will connect to the Kimal substation.
Chile's new refrigerator energy efficiency label E2.0 is mandatory since October 31: what changes
Since October 31, 2026, every refrigerator and freezer sold in Chile, in physical stores and online, must display the new E2.0 label, which keeps the A to G scale but uses a stricter methodology and shows consumption in kWh per month.
Atacama has US$7,325 million in 26 projects under environmental review, and energy leads the list
Chile's Atacama Region has 26 projects under environmental review worth more than US$7,325 million, 9% of the national total, according to the SEA. Three of the four largest are energy projects: a US$900 million pumped storage plant, the Las Cunas solar park and the Delva BESS.
Pressure washer: how much electricity and water it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A 1,400 W Kärcher K2 pressure washer costs about CLP 357 in electricity and CLP 498 in water per hour of use in Santiago: washing a car in 20 minutes costs around CLP 285. What each model costs, whether it saves water compared with a hose and which to choose: corded, cordless, more or fewer bar.
Electric lawn mower: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and whether it beats a petrol mower
A 1,200 W electric lawn mower costs about CLP 153 per half-hour mow, with power at CLP 255.27 per kWh. A petrol mower can spend up to CLP 947 on the same mow and emit 1.4 kg of CO2. What each type costs, which one suits your lawn and what to check before buying.
Sandwich maker: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A 750 W Oster sandwich maker costs at most about CLP 29 per nine-minute use, with power at CLP 255.27 per kWh: under CLP 900 a month used daily. What it costs compared with a panini press, toaster, air fryer and oven, and which one to choose.
The largest pumped storage power station in the world 2026: ranking of the biggest plants
The largest pumped storage power station in the world is Fengning, in China, with 3,600 MW and about 40 GWh of storage. It overtook Bath County (United States, 3,003 MW). Ranking of the top 10, how fast pumped storage is growing worldwide and what is happening in Chile after Paposo was cancelled.
EnAccess files a 400 MWh battery and a 220 kV line in Pudahuel and Lampa for environmental review, US$190 million
EnAccess submitted the Lo Aguirre-Peralillo project for environmental review in Chile: a 100 MW / 400 MWh lithium battery, a new substation and an 11.36 km, 220 kV line in Pudahuel and Lampa, with an investment of US$190 million and 14 months of construction.
Colbún scraps the US$1.4 billion Paposo pumped storage plant as batteries take over
Colbún has ended development of the Paposo pumped storage plant in Taltal, Chile, a project of up to 800 MW and US$1.4 billion that had been suspended since 2024. The company cites the growth of batteries and weak electricity demand growth.
Christmas lights: how much electricity they use, cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A 100-light LED string uses about 7 W and costs around CLP 276 for all of December when lit five hours a night, with power at CLP 255.27 per kWh. An equivalent incandescent string costs almost seven times more. What it costs to light the tree and the house, and what Chile's SEC requires.
Hair straightener: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A hair straightener draws between 40 and 60 W and costs about CLP 4 per 20-minute use, with power at CLP 255.27 per kWh: less than CLP 150 a month with daily use. How it compares with a hair dryer and a hot air brush, what wattage and temperature to choose and what to check when buying.
Gaming PC and laptop: how much electricity they use, cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A mid-range gaming PC draws about 300 W while gaming and costs around CLP 6,900 a month at three hours a day, with power at CLP 255.27 per kWh. A PS5 costs about CLP 5,000 and an office laptop less than CLP 700. How much each device uses and how to spend less.
Huatacondo solar park and its battery have been offline for two months after a reported cyberattack
The Huatacondo solar park, of about 100 MW, and its 98 MW / 312 MWh battery system in Tarapacá, Chile, have been off the grid since August 27, when the operator reported a cyberattack. What is known, what is not and what the draft cybersecurity standard says.
Chile's energy commission reverses course and removes inter-utility balances from the electricity tariff debt
In October, Chile's CNE corrected its September criterion: tariff-equity imbalances between distribution companies will not enter the Tariff Normalization Balance, a debt of about 816 billion pesos to be paid with a 5-peso-per-kWh charge from 2028. What it means for power bills.
Electric shower: how much electricity it uses, cost per shower in Chilean pesos and whether it beats a gas water heater
A 5,500 to 7,500 W electric shower costs between CLP 187 and 255 per 8-minute shower, with power at CLP 255.27 per kWh, but it only delivers 3 to 4 litres of warm water a minute. How much it uses, the monthly bill, what Chile's SEC requires and whether it beats a gas water heater.
Toaster: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A 700 to 1,600 W toaster costs between CLP 9 and 20 per batch of bread, with power at CLP 255.27 per kWh, and less than CLP 1,000 a month in a home that toasts daily. Prices in Chile, how much each model uses and whether it beats the oven or the air fryer.
Rice cooker: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and whether it beats the stove
A 440 to 700 W electric rice cooker costs between CLP 39 and 75 per batch of rice, with power at CLP 255.27 per kWh, and between CLP 600 and 2,300 a month. Prices in Chile, how much the keep-warm mode uses and whether it beats a gas or induction stove.
Batteries in Chile: grid operator scheduling may be limiting their revenue, and DS 32 gives until 2029 to change it
An analysis by consultancy Vinken warns that batteries in Chile discharge on a schedule that does not adapt in time: on 12 and 13 October the real price in their discharge hours was US$2.8/MWh versus US$41/MWh expected. Supreme Decree 32 sets 24- and 36-month deadlines for new rules.
Enel brings forward its summer plan for extreme heat: it will prune 22,000 trees and inspect 510 km of grid in Santiago
Enel Distribución brought forward its summer plan in Chile ahead of forecasts of extreme heat and wildfires: 510 km of lines inspected with LiDAR, thermal imaging and drones, 22,000 trees pruned by 30 November and 100 remote-control devices. The government launched its 2026-2027 wildfire plan.
Air purifier: how much electricity it uses, running cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose (HEPA and CADR)
A 27 to 33 W air purifier costs between CLP 1,650 and 2,000 a month if it runs 8 hours a day, with power at CLP 255.27 per kWh. How much it uses, what CADR each room needs, why the HEPA filter is key and when it makes sense in Chile because of smog and wildfire smoke.
Chile power outages: thunderstorm and tornado leave over 112,000 customers without electricity in Maule and O'Higgins
A lightning strike on a substation in Talca and an EF2 tornado in Requínoa left more than 112,000 customers without power on Monday, October 26, according to the SEC's hourly record. What happened, how many are still affected and how to file a claim.
Chile has 32 battery projects under construction and could reach its 6,000 MW storage goal in early 2027
Chile's Ministry of Energy counts 32 battery projects under construction, with 3,702 MW, 15,398 MWh and US$3.172 billion: more investment than all power plants being built. With 3,123 MW operating and 3,459 MW in testing, the 6,000 MW goal would be met in early 2027.
Hot and cold water dispenser: how much electricity it uses, running cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A hot and cold water dispenser with a compressor costs between CLP 6,900 and 9,200 a month with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh; a thermoelectric one can cost more than twice as much just for cooling. How much each type uses, what it costs in Chilean pesos and which one suits a home or office.
Freezer: how much electricity it uses, running cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose, chest or upright
A 100-liter freezer costs about CLP 3,600 a month and a 290-liter one about CLP 6,100, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh, according to the label consumption of models sold in Chile. How much each size uses, chest or upright, Chile's new efficiency label and which one to choose.
Mini fridge: how much electricity it uses, running cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A 90-liter mini fridge lists between 9 and 10 kWh a month, about CLP 2,300 to 2,500 with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh, or close to CLP 30,000 a year. How much it uses according to its label, why it uses more per liter than a refrigerator, direct cooling or thermoelectric, and which one to choose.
The largest solar thermal power plant in the world 2026: ranking of the biggest concentrated solar power (CSP) plants
The largest solar thermal power plant in the world is Noor Energy 1, in Dubai: 700 MW of concentrated solar power, a 263-metre tower and 5,907 MWh of thermal storage. Ranking of the biggest CSP plants, what is happening at Ivanpah and where Chile's Cerro Dominador stands.
Chile's light pollution standard takes full effect nationwide: what changes for lighting, signs and streetlights
Chile's light pollution standard (Supreme Decree 1/2022 of the Environment Ministry) took full effect nationwide on October 19, 2026, and the SMA notified regulated parties. Warm light up to 3,000 K, signs off from midnight and deadlines for existing fixtures.
Verano Energy secures US$187 million for Observatorio: 123 MWp of solar and a 600 MWh battery in Chile
Verano Energy closed US$187 million in green loans, coordinated by MUFG with support from Scotiabank, to build Observatorio in Marchigüe, O'Higgins: 123 MWp of solar and a Sungrow battery of about 600 MWh. It will sell its power to Copec Emoac and targets operation in 2028.
Hemera solar park in Chile's Maule region wins environmental approval: 94.6 MW and five-hour batteries
The Maule Environmental Assessment Commission approved Metlen's Hemera solar park in Río Claro and San Rafael: US$130 million, 94.6 MW, 157,680 panels and a 541.44 MWh battery system able to inject 90 MW for five hours.
Electric grill: how much electricity it uses, cost per barbecue in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A 2,000 W electric grill costs about CLP 511 per hour at full power and close to CLP 600 for a one-hour barbecue including preheating, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Comparison with charcoal and gas, the power ratings of models sold in Chile and which one to choose.
Steam iron: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose (classic, garment steamer or steam generator)
A 2,200 W steam iron costs up to CLP 562 per hour, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh, although the thermostat lowers actual consumption. Monthly ironing cost in Chilean pesos, differences between a classic iron, a garment steamer and a steam generator, and which to choose.
Inflatable hot tub: how much electricity it uses, heating cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
An inflatable hot tub has a heater of about 2,000 W, and heating 800 liters of water from 15 °C to 38 °C costs CLP 5,500 to 7,900, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Keeping it warm all month with the lid on can exceed CLP 90,000. Running costs, when to drain it and which model to choose.
Chile’s electricity marginal cost falls to US$3.4 per MWh, its lowest since 2002, and curtailment reaches 25.5%
In the week of 12 to 18 October 2026, the average marginal cost at Polpaico was US$3.4/MWh, the lowest since June 2002, according to DNV. There were 74 hours at zero cost, and 25.5% of the available solar and wind generation was lost.
Gas heater in Chile: cost in Chilean pesos, how long a gas cylinder lasts and which to choose
A portable gas heater burns 150 to 300 grams of LPG per hour: about CLP 300 to 600 per hour with a 15 kg cylinder at CLP 30,250 (Lipigas, Santiago). A 15 kg cylinder lasts 50 to 100 hours. Prices by region from Chile's official Gas en Línea platform, heater types and safety.
Gas water heater (calefont) in Chile: what size to choose, gas cost per shower and which type is best
A 10-litre gas water heater, known in Chile as a calefont, heats 10 litres of water per minute and uses about CLP 370 of LPG per 8-minute shower, less than an electric tank heater (CLP 532). How to choose between 5, 7, 10 and 13 litres, natural or forced draught, and what the SEC requires.
Water pump: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and which to choose
A 1 HP water pump draws about 0.75 kW and costs close to CLP 190 per hour of operation, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Monthly cost in Chilean pesos by use, differences between peripheral, centrifugal, submersible and booster pumps, and when a solar pump makes sense.
Chile electricity peak hours: food industry asks to shorten them and government reviews the charge for 2027
Chile's food industry asked the Energy Minister to shorten the electricity peak-hours period, which raises costs for companies from April to September between 18:00 and 22:00. September was already removed in 2026 and the CNE is reviewing the mechanism.
Batteries now supply 5.1% of Chile's electricity and overtake four renewable technologies
Battery systems injected 5.1% of the power system's energy between January and September 2026 and 7.9% in September, more than biomass, geothermal and small hydro plants, according to ACERA.
Coffee maker: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and which is best (pod, drip or espresso)
A pod coffee machine uses about CLP 5 to 8 of electricity per cup and a drip machine about CLP 35 per jug, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. What weighs most is leaving it on: the warming plate and the boiler. Tables by type and tips.
TV: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos by screen size and standby
A 55-inch LED TV draws about 63 to 84 W and costs between CLP 1,930 and 2,570 a month watched 4 hours a day, with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. HDR can double consumption. Table by screen size, OLED and standby.
Electric cooktop: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and whether it beats gas
Boiling a litre of water costs about CLP 30 on an induction hob, CLP 32 to 34 on a ceramic hob and about CLP 31 to 39 with bottled LPG. Consumption per zone, monthly cost in Chilean pesos and what makes sense in Chile.
Chile's antitrust regulator FNE clears takeover of AES, owner of AES Andes, by BlackRock's GIP and EQT
Chile's National Economic Prosecutor's Office cleared without conditions the purchase of AES Corporation by BlackRock's GIP and EQT, a US$33.4 billion deal. It reviewed generation, transmission, batteries and data centres in Chile.
Chile's Los Ríos: power companies to spend CLP 651 million on summer prevention plans, with SEC oversight
Saesa, Cooprel, Socoepa and Luz Osorno will spend CLP 651,941,900 on tree trimming, clearing safety strips and grid maintenance in Chile's Los Ríos Region before the hot season. The SEC regulator will check they are carried out on time.
Copec Flux and Vivo install 663 solar panels at Chillán outlet mall to generate 600 MWh a year
Copec Flux and Vivo SpA opened a 663-panel solar plant at the Vivo Outlet Chillán in Chile, which will generate about 600 MWh a year, the average consumption of 250 homes in the city, and avoid about 183 tonnes of CO2 a year.
Dishwasher: how much electricity and water it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and vs. hand washing
A 13-place dishwasher uses between 0.74 and 0.94 kWh per wash on the eco programme: between CLP 189 and CLP 240 with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Monthly cost, water use and whether it beats washing by hand.
Hair dryer: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and what wattage to choose
A 2,000 W hair dryer uses 0.33 kWh in 10 minutes at full power: about CLP 85 with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. Monthly cost, a table by wattage from 1,600 to 2,500 W and which one to choose.
Vacuum cleaner: how much electricity it uses, cost in Chilean pesos and whether a robot is worth it
A 900 W vacuum cleaner uses 0.45 kWh in half an hour: about CLP 115 with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. A robot uses about 0.1 kWh per charge. Monthly cost of each type in pesos, the EU 900 W limit and which to choose.
Chile cold front: power outages peaked at 127,643 customers and 13,681 remain without power on Wednesday
Data from Chile's power regulator SEC show that outages from the cold front peaked at 13:00 on Tuesday, October 20, with 127,643 customers without power, 80,555 of them in Coquimbo. At 09:00 on Wednesday, 13,681 remained nationwide.
Chile's energy commission opens public consultation on how homes and buildings connect to the grid
Chile's National Energy Commission (CNE) put out for public consultation a draft that amends the commercial quality chapter of the distribution technical standard, focused on the connection procedure. There are 20 calendar days to submit comments.
Promigas opens Aurora solar and storage plant in Chile and plans a US$1.06 billion Tarapacá hub
Colombia's Promigas opened the Aurora solar-plus-battery plant in Pozo Almonte, Chile: US$224 million, 221 MW of solar and 187 MW of storage for five hours. It is the first of three plants in a Tarapacá hub. It also launched its Krelo brand.
Electric oven: how much power it uses, running cost in Chile and what size to choose
A 48-litre countertop electric oven draws about 2,000 W: at full power it costs about CLP 511 an hour with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. What it costs to roast a chicken or bake a cake, tables by model and size, and how to spend less.
Electric kettle: how much power it uses, what it costs to boil water in Chile and which to choose
Boiling a litre of water in an electric kettle uses about 0.11 kWh, around CLP 28 with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh. A cup costs about CLP 7. Monthly cost, boiling time by power rating and how it compares with a microwave.
Air fryer: how much power it uses, running cost in Chile and whether it saves compared with an oven
A 4-litre air fryer draws about 1,300 W. Frozen chips use 0.287 kWh, about CLP 73, against CLP 220 in an oven, according to Which? lab tests. Monthly cost and when it really saves.
Electricity prices in Latin America 2026: ranking by country and where Chile stands
Chile has the fourth most expensive household electricity in Latin America: US$0.262 per kWh in March 2026, behind Guatemala, El Salvador and Uruguay, according to GlobalPetrolPrices. Ranking of 17 countries for households and businesses.
Chile cold front: thunderstorm alert as regulator SEC demands contingency plans from power utilities
Chile's weather service issued thunderstorm and heavy rain alerts of up to 40 mm from Coquimbo to Maule on Tuesday 20 October. The government and the SEC asked distributors for contingency plans, and Enel increased its field crews ninefold.
Chile's Los Ríos region faces a 6.2% electricity bill rise in 2027 despite the national cut, with two wind farms stalled
While Chilean power bills are set to fall 4.3% on average from January 2027, in Los Ríos they would rise 6.2%. The regional energy secretary blames transmission congestion and the delayed Cautín-Ciruelos line. The figures and the stalled projects.
Chile's Estela Solar plant, formerly Aurora, hits 201 MW in tests and its 935 MWh battery delivers 919 MWh
Test reports published by Chile's grid operator show Promigas' Estela Solar plant in Pozo Almonte reached 201.08 MW net and that its 187 MW, 935 MWh battery delivered 919 MWh over five hours.
Dehumidifier: how much electricity it uses, running cost in Chile and which to choose
A 12-litre home dehumidifier draws about 190 W: with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh, that is about CLP 49 an hour and some CLP 11,600 a month running eight hours a day. What 20, 30 and 50-litre units cost, which type to choose and when it pays off.
Electric fan: how much power it uses, running cost in Chile and which to choose (pedestal, tower or ceiling)
A 45 W pedestal fan costs about CLP 11 an hour with electricity at CLP 255.27 per kWh: under CLP 2,800 a month running eight hours a day. What tower and ceiling fans use, why DC motors use half, and when a fan beats air conditioning.
Pool heat pump: how much power it uses, what heating a pool costs in Chile and what size to choose
A pool heat pump delivers about 5 kWh of heat for every kWh of electricity. For a 30 m³ pool, a unit of about 6 kW draws around 1.2 kW: about CLP 306 an hour at CLP 255.27 per kWh. What heating costs, what size to choose and how to spend less.
The largest solar power plant in the world 2026: ranking of the biggest solar parks
The world's largest solar park is Talatan in China, with about 21 GW built in phases. The largest single plant is Midong, at 3.5 GW. Ranking of the world's biggest solar parks in 2026 and where Chile stands.
The largest battery in the world 2026: ranking of the biggest energy storage systems
The largest battery system in operation belongs to the Saudi Electricity Company, at 7.8 GWh across three sites. At a single location, Khavda (India) reached 6.63 GWh. Ranking of the world's largest batteries in 2026 and where Chile stands.
New cold front in Chile: up to 75 mm of rain in Santiago and how to prepare for power outages
A new cold front brings 45 to 75 mm of rain to Santiago from Monday 19 to Thursday 22 October, with a red alert in 10 municipalities. What the previous storm did to the power grid and how to prepare.
Deloitte: Chile's power transmission cannot handle the available energy, and curtailment hit 6,205 GWh in 2025
A Deloitte report concludes that Chile's power transmission cannot carry the energy available: renewable curtailment reached 6,205 GWh in 2025, 71% solar. Batteries and the banks financing the sector.
Ceibo, a 250 MW solar park in Vallenar, wins environmental approval for US$220 million
The 250 MW Ceibo photovoltaic solar park, with batteries, won environmental approval in Vallenar, in Chile's Atacama region. A US$220 million investment, 496,800 panels and 600 workers at peak construction.
Kerosene heater in Chile: running cost in pesos, price per litre and which to choose
A 2,740 kcal/h kerosene heater burns about 0.31 litres per hour: with kerosene at CLP 1,347 per litre in Santiago, that is about CLP 418 per hour. Monthly cost, comparison with pellets and electricity, and which to buy.
Home generator: fuel consumption, running cost and what size to choose
A 1,800 W inverter generator burns about 1 litre of petrol per hour at full load: about CLP 1,630 per hour with 93-octane petrol at CLP 1,498. What size to choose, the cost per kWh and how to connect it safely.
Portable air conditioner vs. evaporative air cooler: how much each uses and which to choose
A 12,000 BTU portable air conditioner uses about 1,350 W, roughly CLP 345 per hour. An evaporative air cooler uses 50 to 75 W, under CLP 20 per hour, but cools far less. Consumption and cost compared.
Largest lithium producing countries 2026: world ranking and where Chile stands
Australia is the world's largest lithium producer, with 92,000 tonnes in 2025, followed by China (62,000) and Chile (56,000), according to the USGS. Global output grew 31%. Country ranking and reserves.
Chilean court orders Enel to cancel a 434,000-peso charge after ignoring an SEC ruling: how to dispute a high electricity bill
The San Miguel Court of Appeals ordered Enel to cancel 434,135 pesos charged to a customer in Pedro Aguirre Cerda, as the SEC had ruled. The SEC is also investigating 56,000 meters. How to dispute a high power bill in Chile.
How much electricity does a microwave use in watts and how much does it cost
A microwave with 800 W of cooking power draws 1,100 to 1,300 watts while heating. Used 15 minutes a day it uses about 9.5 kWh a month, around 2,400 Chilean pesos. Tables by use, standby and comparison with oven and kettle.
How much electricity does a washing machine use in watts and kWh per load, and how much does it cost
A washing machine uses 0.3 to 1.5 kWh per load depending on water temperature. With 14 loads a month it costs 1,200 to 5,400 Chilean pesos in electricity. Watts, real labels, front-load vs. top-load and how to save.
Countries with the most solar power 2026: world ranking by installed capacity and Chile's place
China has 1,200 GW of installed solar power, half the world's total, according to IRENA. The United States and India complete the podium and Chile ranks 19th with 12 GW. 2026 country ranking with end-2025 data.
What to do during a power outage: ideas for a night without electricity
What to do during a power outage: how to keep fridge food safe, what to have on hand, how to report it and games for a night without electricity.
Chile's lithium exports nearly triple to USD 4.745 billion between January and September 2026
Chile exported USD 4.745 billion of lithium from January to September 2026, almost three times as much as a year earlier and 98% more than in all of 2025. Carbonate, sulphate and hydroxide, destinations and context.
Chile has 12,188 MW of projects waiting to connect to the grid, and BESS batteries make up 62%, according to the grid operator
Chile's grid operator reported 320 projects in the connection process, with more than 12,188 MW. BESS battery systems account for 7,561 MW, concentrated in Antofagasta. Figures by technology and region.
Competition in Chile's power sector: the FNE seeks changes to how real estate projects connect, and the grid operator proposes tender rules
Chile's antitrust prosecutor asked the competition court to change the distribution technical standard for connecting real estate projects. The grid operator proposes 8 safeguards so related companies can bid in expansion tenders.
Electric water heater: how much electricity it uses, what it costs per month in Chile and what size to choose
An 80-litre electric water heater uses about 4.5 kWh to heat a full tank. For a family of four, that is close to CLP 75,000 a month. Consumption by size, prices in Chile and how to save.
Pellet stove: how much heating costs in Chile, the price of a bag and which one to choose
With a 15 kg bag at CLP 4,850 to 5,690, heat from a pellet stove costs about CLP 81 to 95 per kWh, less than half the cost of an electric heater. Stove prices, hourly use and subsidies.
Energy-efficient clothes dryer: what it costs per cycle in Chile and which to choose (heat pump, condenser or vented)
A heat pump dryer uses less than half the energy of a resistance dryer: about CLP 340 per cycle versus CLP 700. Consumption by type, prices in Chile and how many years it takes to pay back the difference.
Lithium reserves in the world: 2026 ranking by country and where Chile stands
Chile has the world's largest lithium reserves: 9.2 million tonnes, 25% of the total, according to USGS 2026. Ranking of reserves, production, resources and how many years they would last.
Chile's electricity bills would fall 4.3% from January 2027, according to preliminary figures: the cut in each region and where bills rise
The CNE's preliminary report projects an average 4.3% drop in Chilean electricity bills from January 2027, with 11% in Antofagasta and 4% in Santiago. Three regions rise. Table by region.
Chile's Supreme Court upholds the ruling against Enel over the 2021 power outages: who gets compensation and how it is calculated
Chile's Supreme Court rejected Enel's appeal, making final the ruling over the January and February 2021 power outages that affected more than 127,000 customers. How compensation is calculated.
Grenergy closes US$457 million for Algarrobal and Palmas: 446 MW of solar and 1.8 GWh of batteries in Chile
Grenergy closed its largest financing: US$457 million for 446 MW of solar and 1.8 GWh of storage in Chile. Algarrobal, the fifth phase of Oasis de Atacama, adds 242 MW and 1.5 GWh.
Solar energy in Chile in figures: installed capacity, generation and the largest solar parks
Chile has between 12,184 MW (CNE, May 2026) and 13,556 MW (Coordinator, June 2026) of solar capacity, a third of its power mix. The largest solar parks, generation and what comes next.
How much electricity a house uses in Chile per month: average kWh and what you pay
A house in Chile uses about 180 kWh a month, the consumption the CNE uses as its typical household. That equals about 250 watts around the clock and about CLP 47,000 on the bill. Tables by usage and appliance.
How much electricity a refrigerator uses in watts and what it costs per month
A refrigerator uses between 25 and 60 kWh a month depending on size and efficiency, between CLP 6,400 and CLP 15,300 with kWh at CLP 255. How many watts it uses, how to read the label and how to cut the cost.
Low-consumption electric heaters: how much they cost to run and which one to choose
A 1,500 W electric heater costs about CLP 383 an hour with kWh at CLP 255. Why there is no low-consumption resistance heater, how much each type costs and what works best.
Power outages from Chile's storm: how many customers lost power, how to file a claim and what compensation exists
The storm left more than 60,000 customers without power in Chile on October 13. How to file a claim with the SEC, what compensation the law sets and what utilities paid in July.
Chile's CNE approves 2026 urgent transmission works, including a 200 MW battery at Tineo
The CNE approved two urgent works worth US$77 million: a 200 MW / 400 MWh battery at the Tineo substation and a line upgrade in La Araucanía. What they are and why they matter.
Chile surpasses 3,000 MW of battery storage, and October is one of the busiest months for new projects
Battery storage almost doubled in Chile in 2026: 3,116 MW operating as of August, according to ACERA, and a pipeline close to 40 GW. Figures and what they mean.
Home solar kit in Chile: what it includes, how much it costs and how to choose one
A 3,000 W solar kit costs between CLP 990,000 and CLP 2,735,000 in Chile depending on the batteries. What it includes, on-grid vs. off-grid vs. hybrid, and how to size it.
Electricity price per kWh in Chile 2026: how much it costs by city and utility
Residential electricity costs between CLP 241 and CLP 286 per kWh in cities served by CGE since October 1, 2026. Table by city, bill charges and what you pay for 150 or 200 kWh.
How much electricity an air conditioner uses and what it costs in Chile
A 12,000 BTU air conditioner draws about 1.1 kW: around CLP 280 per hour at full power. Table by size, monthly cost and how to spend less.
Emergency solar kit: what it is and which one to choose for a power outage
A 500 to 900 Wh portable power station costs between CLP 419,990 and CLP 639,200 in Chile. How many hours it runs a router, phones or a fridge, and how to choose one.