Wind power auctions (403-2009)

The decree promotes the execution of contracts for the acquisition of wind electricity. The decree also states the main guidelines for the execution of such contracts, which must be preceded by auctions developed by UTE (National Electricity Utility).

This decree auctioned 150MW for wind power, providing that a further 150MW would be auctioned in a future phase in order to reach the 2015 goal of 500MW of renewable energy, as proposed by the government (of which 300MW is wind).

The call for proposals was open to wind farms between 30-50 MW with a required local content of at least 20%. Requirements included that maintece after the first year should be done 80% by local employees and that the control center must be based in Uruguay.

Only one project could be awarded per bidder and PPAs could last for up to 20 years. The developers/generators had to bear the costs of connection.

The Auctions resulted in 3 projects with a combined capacity of 150 MW.

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