UGE adds 1.2MW solar in Panama

UGE International and Panamanian partner Otepi Renewables have installed solar energy systems for six plants owned by Cochez in Panama.

The six sites have a total capacity of 1.2MW and are the first of an estimated 22 sites that UGE and Otepi will install and commission over the next 12 months, creating the biggest portfolio of commercial solar projects in Panama.

Each individual site will qualify for net metering because each one is below the qualifying threshold of 500kw. This will allow Cochez to improve their return and reduce emmissions.

Cochez chief executive Raul Cochez said: “We chose UGE and OTEPI for their expertise in developing custom solar systems to further that environmental commitment, optimize our long term operational costs and transform ourselves into the leading sustainable company in the country.”

“Panama’s vast solar resources make it an ideal place for companies looking to use the sun’s energy to boost their bottom line,” said UGE chief executive Nick Blitterswyk. “Since electricity costs often comprise a large portion of a facility’s operating expenses, smart companies like COCHEZ are switching to distributed energy to protect against future utility rate volatility.”

The companies expect to deploy a total of 4.5MW across all of COCHEZ’s facilities in Panama, making it the largest commercial solar portfolio to be installed in the country.

 Image: Panama solar (Govt of Panama)