Statkraft Chile Fills Los Lagos Reservoir, Eyes 2027 Start
Statkraft has filled the reservoir of its Los Lagos hydroelectric plant in southern Chile, signaling progress on a project long delayed by permitting issues. The company expects commercial operation to begin in 2027. The post Statkraft Chile Fills Los Lagos Reservoir, Eyes 2027 Start appeared first on The Rio Times .
Statkraft Chile has completed a major milestone in its Los Lagos hydroelectric project, filling the reservoir of the plant in the Pilmaiquén River basin of southern Chile. The reservoir, a 192-hectare area, was filled in late August 2026, marking a significant step toward commercial operation expected in 2027. The project, located in Mapuche Williche territory, has faced permitting delays due to complex environmental and regulatory processes.
Once operational, the 52 MW run-of-river plant will contribute to Chile’s electricity grid, providing renewable energy to millions of homes and businesses. The project's completion has drawn attention to Chile’s permitting and consultation processes, with concerns raised over its impact on indigenous rights. Statkraft Chile, a Norwegian company, operates under strict human-rights due diligence requirements.
The reservoir filling is a crucial step before the plant can start generating power, signaling the end phase of construction. The company is now focused on commissioning the plant’s turbines and systems, as well as passing final inspections before the start of commercial operation in 2027.
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