Background on the Kimal-Lo Aguirre Megaline Project
The Servicio de Evaluación Ambiental (SEA) in Chile has given a crucial green light to the Kimal-Lo Aguirre megaline project, bringing it closer to obtaining its Resolution of Environmental Qualification (RCA). This extensive undertaking, valued at approximately 1.5 billion US dollars, aims to connect Antofagasta and Santiago using high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology for the first time in Chile. The project is pivotal for the country’s decarbonization efforts.
Project Details and Impact
The Kimal-Lo Aguirre megaline spans over 1,346 kilometers across five regions: Antofagasta, Atacama, Coquimbo, Valparaíso, and the Metropolitan Region. This high-tension electric transmission line project is the largest evaluated by the SEA in terms of extent. It will require nearly 5,000 permits during construction, creating more than 6,200 jobs in the process.
Regulatory Process and Next Steps
Since the project spans multiple regions, it will bypass the Comisión de Evaluación Ambiental (Coeva) and instead be reviewed by the Dirección Ejecutiva. The SEA’s executive director, Valentina Durán, is expected to issue the RCA shortly. Once approved, the project will proceed with securing the necessary permits and initiating construction.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Kimal-Lo Aguirre megaline project? It’s a large-scale electric transmission line project connecting Antofagasta and Santiago in Chile, utilizing HVDC technology for the first time in the country.
- Why is this project significant? The Kimal-Lo Aguirre megaline is crucial for Chile’s decarbonization efforts, as it supports the transition to cleaner energy sources.
- What are the project’s dimensions? The line will span over 1,346 kilometers across five regions: Antofagasta, Atacama, Coquimbo, Valparaíso, and the Metropolitan Region.
- How many jobs will this project create? The construction of the Kimal-Lo Aguirre megaline is expected to generate more than 6,200 jobs.
- What regulatory body is responsible for the project’s approval? The Servicio de Evaluación Ambiental (SEA) is responsible for evaluating and approving the Kimal-Lo Aguirre megaline project.
- What is the next step after receiving the green light from SEA? The SEA’s executive director, Valentina Durán, will issue the Resolution of Environmental Qualification (RCA), allowing the project to proceed with permit acquisition and construction.
