Potential Renewable Energy Source To Be Developed In Chile With Help From The U.S. Trade And Development Agency

For Immediate Release

Washington, DC (18 February 2000) The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (TDA) has awarded a $275,000 grant to Chile for a feasibility study on a large-scale wind energy project in Calama. The grant was signed in a ceremony today in Santiago by TDA Regional Director for Latin America Albert W. Angulo as part of his participation in Secretary Daley's business development mission to Latin America. The Acting President of Corporación Nacional del Cobre de Chile (CODELCO), signed on behalf of the project sponsor.

"TDA has long been active in Chile by providing grant assistance for projects in nearly every sector, particularly ports, mining and the environment," said Regional Director Angulo. "We are pleased to provide this latest assistance, which will help Chile meet a rising demand for energy in an environmentally friendly manner."

The economic growth that Chile has experienced in the last few years has caused a concurrent increase in the demand for energy. In many parts of Chile, the grids have relied on supplies of power from hydro plants. However, in late 1998 and 1999, Chile suffered a severe drought that had a negative impact on the country's ability to generate this type of power. Since that time, the Chilean government has been exploring options to generate alternative sources of energy, particularly for small facilities that provide power to plants, factories and some small communities.

Wind energy is a promising source of renewable energy with significant potential in many parts of the world. Initial studies by CODELCO have found favorable wind conditions near the city of Calama at the site of the proposed wind farm. This TDA-funded study will further evaluate the technical and financial conditions for constructing the project.

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency, an agency of the U.S. Government, helps form mutually beneficial partnerships between U.S. private sector companies and overseas project sponsors. Last year, TDA provided assistance in 67 nations around the world.

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