Colbun submits environ. studies for 750MW thermo project

Chilean generator Colbun has presented an environmental impact study (EIS) of its proposed US$412mn, 750MW Los Pinos thermoelectric project in Region VIII to environmental authorities. The gas-fired project will be located 2km north of Charrua, and plans are to use gas from the nearby Gasoducto del Pacifico pipeline, with diesel as a back-up fuel. The project is designed in three 250MW stages to be implemented over a period of 10 years, with a total of four gas and two steam turbines. The first stage would require an investment of US$88mn, the second US$162mn and the third another US$162mn. The first stage is scheduled to start operations in 2006. The project would include a 500m, 220kV transmission line from the plant to the Charrua substation and connection with the central grid (SIC). "The construction of this plant is in line with the need to have enough electricity supply to meet expected demand growth, and the country should be prepared to avoid a power crisis," the statement said. Belgium's Tractebel controls Colbun.