In February 2025, Argentina's Energy Secretariat, under the Ministry of Economy, initiated an international tender to integrate 500 megawatts (MW) of battery energy storage systems (BESS) into the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires (AMBA). This ambitious project, estimated at $500 million, aims to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the country's electricity supply, particularly during peak demand periods. (pv-magazine.com)
Project Overview
The tender focuses on deploying BESS in critical nodes within AMBA, a region that accounts for approximately 40% of Argentina's electricity consumption. Each system is required to provide energy for at least four consecutive hours per full discharge cycle. The completion deadline for all installations is set for December 31, 2028. (mercomindia.com)
Objectives and Benefits
This initiative marks a significant shift in Argentina's energy strategy, prioritizing private investment and technological innovation to address longstanding infrastructure challenges. By integrating large-scale battery storage, the country aims to:
- Enhance Grid Stability: Storing excess energy during low-demand periods and releasing it during peak times will help balance supply and demand, reducing the risk of blackouts and power fluctuations.
- Facilitate Renewable Energy Integration: Battery storage systems will support the incorporation of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, into the energy mix by storing intermittent renewable energy.
- Attract Private Investment: The project is designed to attract private and international investments, signaling a commitment to modernizing the energy sector and improving energy security.
Tender Details
Bidders are required to submit a bank guarantee of $10,000 per MW based on the maximum offered storage power. The Wholesale Electricity Market Administration Company (CAMMESA) will oversee the bidding process and act as a guarantor for contracts awarded to major power distributors Edenor and Edesur. (mercomindia.com)
Implications for the Energy Sector
This tender represents a pivotal step in Argentina's efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure. By addressing critical power nodes and integrating advanced storage solutions, the country aims to create a more resilient and efficient electricity grid. The success of this project could serve as a model for other provinces, encouraging the adoption of similar energy storage initiatives nationwide.
As Argentina continues to invest in energy storage technologies, the outcomes of this tender will be closely watched, potentially influencing energy policies and infrastructure development across the region.
