In a landmark event for renewable energy, Vice President Raquel Peña officially launched the Cotoperí Solar complex on Wednesday, marking it as the largest photovoltaic project in Central America and the Caribbean. Situated in Guaymate, La Romana, this state-of-the-art facility boasts a nominal capacity of 162.6 MW, comprising three solar plants that are projected to generate 286 GWh of clean energy annually. This significant output is expected to offset over 210,000 tons of CO₂ emissions, an environmental impact equivalent to planting 5.5 million trees.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by prominent figures including Energy and Mines Minister Joel Santos, Acciona President and CEO José Manuel Entrecanales, JMMB Dominican Republic Executive President Juan José Melo, and Grupo País CEO Juan Carlos País. The project is a joint venture, with Acciona Energía holding a 51% stake and Cotosolar Holding, which includes the JMMB Sustainable Energy Fund (FES), Grupo País, and other investors, owning the remaining 49%.
Beyond its environmental contributions, Cotoperí Solar has already spurred substantial economic and social development in the region. During its construction phase, the project created over 600 direct and indirect jobs. Additionally, it has implemented community-focused initiatives benefiting more than 3,500 individuals. These programs include job placement schemes that prioritize local employment, vocational and entrepreneurship training, and road safety campaigns.
In collaboration with Centro Arcoíris and acciona.org, Cotoperí Solar is also addressing critical infrastructure needs by improving water and sanitation access for over 4,500 residents in the Bella Vista and Villa Penca communities of Bajos de Haina. This multifaceted approach underscores the project’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for local populations.