El Salvador plans to increase its installed geothermal energy capacity from 204 to 300 megawatts in the coming years as part of an ambitious government clean energy project, according to Daniel lvarez, president of the Executive Hydroelectric Commission of the Lempa River (CEL).

According to the head of the autonomous, the plan contemplates expanding by 95 megawatts with a view to building new plants in Chinameca, San Vicente, and Volcán de Conchagua.

CEL data indicate that geothermal energy contributed in 2021 between 22% and 25% of the total generation in the country, which, together with hydroelectric power, reaches 50%.

“We don’t have a large amount of resources, but the ones we do have are very valuable. We have great potential for geothermal energy, which is clean energy 24 hours a day, seven days a week and has many economic and social benefits” — the official said. 

The CEL spokesman added that the expansion plan “will benefit the pockets of all Salvadorans” because clean energy production is more efficient and cheaper than those that depend on hydrocarbons.

Thanks to this commitment, he added that, thanks to the work carried out by the country in the field of geothermal energy, this will be the venue for the 2022 Geothermal Ministerial Meeting, promoted by the World Geothermal Alliance.

The best proposals, technological advances, cooperation, and issues related to geothermal energy generation are discussed at this meeting, according to lvarez.

Regarding projects for 2022, the president of CEL said that he proposes the construction of a biogas plant at the mouth of the Acelhuate River, as well as an energy project with turbines to take advantage of the energy potential of the Salvadoran coasts.