The latest report by the Chilean Copper Commission (Cochilco) on the power outlook for the industry estimates that its demand will grow at a CAGR of about 3.1% during 2019-2030.
Therefore, power consumption by the copper industry in Chile will grow from 23.6 TWh in 2019 to 33.1 TWh in 2030, says an article in RenewablesNow.
Chile will have to augment power capacity by 1,387 MW to meet the increased demand as projected above.
Of all mineral processing activities, concentration itself will account for 66% of the demand in 2030.
On a regional basis, demand from copper mines in the Antofagasta region will grow by 30% by 2030, while that from the Atacama and Tarapaca regions will grow by 78% and 110%, respectively. For the Coquimbo region, power demand will grow by 46% by 2030.
On a positive note, the Cochilco report said the Chilean copper industry would benefit from forthcoming changes in the energy mix at the country’s National Electricity System by the inclusion of more renewables. Further, better generation efficiencies and modern technology would lead to lower energy costs with better security of supply.
Read the RenewablesNow article HERE.
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