Argentinian steel producer Ternium SA has announced plans to enhance the capacity of its 72-MW wind farm currently under construction in Olavarria, Argentina. The move is aimed at substantially reducing the company's reliance on electricity purchases from the market.
Originally initiated in August 2023, the Olavarria wind project will now see its installed capacity increased to 99 MW by incorporating six additional turbines to the initially planned 16, according to Ternium. The company secured priority dispatch for 28.5 MW in the latest tender conducted by the Argentine wholesale electricity market administrator, enabling the expansion.
Ternium foresees an upward adjustment in its total investment for the project, estimating it to reach USD 220 million (EUR 200.5 million). Upon reaching its full capacity, the Olavarria wind farm is projected to generate approximately 480 GWh of electricity annually. This strategic expansion will enable Ternium to replace around 90% of the electricity it procures within Argentina's national interconnected system, enhancing its self-sufficiency.
The wind farm is on track to be operational in the fourth quarter of 2024, marking a significant step in Ternium's efforts to integrate renewable energy solutions into its operations.