A giant energy storage project in Chile. Mack Energy gets the green light for the Black BESS project
The Chilean renewable energy developer Mack Energy Group has received final environmental approval for the Black BESS project. The battery system will be built in Chile’s northernmost region, Arica y Parinacota. The USD 220 million investment (approx. EUR 188 million) involves the construction of a standalone energy storage facility.
Technical parameters and transmission infrastructure
The Black BESS project will be located in the municipality of Camarones. Mack Energy selected this site due to favorable terrain conditions and proximity to key energy hubs. The system will be based on lithium‑ion technology. The main components of the investment include:
- Installed power – 350 MW
- Storage capacity – 1,409 MWh
- Electrical substation – the proprietary “Black Step‑up Substation”
- Transmission line – a 220 kV underground section, 105 meters long
- Grid connection – direct link to an existing network substation
Project timeline and capital plans
Construction is scheduled to begin in December 2026. According to the current timeline, the facility is expected to reach commercial operation in March 2028. Mack Energy, which also acts as an environmental advisor, has appointed Anabatica Renovables to manage the M&A process for the project. This will allow the developer to seek a strategic partner or financial investor to complete the build‑out.
Strategic importance for Northern Chile
The choice of the Arica y Parinacota region is no coincidence. The area records exceptionally high daytime electricity production. A large‑scale BESS will enable the capture of surplus solar energy and its release into the grid during the evening peak. The project aligns with Chile’s broader strategy to decarbonize its energy mix while maintaining system reliability. With a storage capacity of 1.4 GWh, Black BESS will become one of the key pillars of modern energy infrastructure in the northern part of the country.