A municipality in Argentina is ramping up its ambitions by installing renewable energy systems on municipal buildings and freeing up finance to encourage citizens to power their futures sustainably.
The municipality of Godoy Cruz, situated in Mendoza, may have a population of just 200,000, but it has big ambitions for renewable energy. Their Local Climate Action Plan unlocks access to finance for renewable energy systems for citizens and businesses who were previously priced out of the market. The municipal bank will provide citizens low-interest loans, and the municipality will facilitate approvals and installations, making it as affordable and hassle-free as possible for citizens to invest in solar. The program is the first of its kind in Argentina.
To lead by example and promote the benefits of renewable energy, the municipality has so far installed 10 kW of solar PV and thermal systems across its buildings. The city aims to scale this program to reach 50% of the municipality’s buildings. In addition, the city promotes information campaigns, which are broadcast by local media.
Godoy Cruz is also home to Argentina’s first wind turbine manufacturing plant, which is expected to double its annual capacity in 2017, after just one year of operation.
15,000 kg of CO2 have been saved as a result of the first municipal renewable energy systems
The challenge
Renewables accounted for less than 2% of Argentina’s energy mix in 2016, despite an abundance of wind and sun throughout the country. Achieving the country’s ambitious target of 20% renewables by 2020 will require more strategies such as those underway in Godoy Cruz.
Co-benefits
Economic As well as savings on energy bills and short payback times, renewable energy manufacturing and installations in Godoy Cruz will stimulate the local green economy.
Social The newly built wind turbine manufacturing plant will employ more people from Godoy Cruz as wind power is deployed throughout Argentina.
Health Reduced particulate pollution from fossil fuel-fired power plants in dense urban areas improves air quality and reduces respiratory diseases.
About Mendoza
Mendoza is the capital of the province of Mendoza in Argentina and with a metropolitan population of just over a million means Greater Mendoza is the fourth largest metropolitan area in the country. Two of the main industries of the Mendoza area are olive oil production and Argentine wine.
