Backed by Corfo, the Atamos-Tec consortium was established with a clear mission: to analyze and evolve photovoltaic technologies capable of mastering the extreme conditions of the Atacama Desert.
The project focused on developing photovoltaic modules optimized to thrive in this challenging climate. By addressing the harsh environmental factors that push conventional solar technology to its limits, the initiative sought to overcome existing hardware constraints, adapting modules for superior productivity and resilience.
A pilot plant in Antofagasta served as the beating heart of this initiative. This facility became the testing ground for a wide range of configurations, including fixed modules, trackers, and vertical structures. Through rigorous testing, the team identified exactly which technologies delivered peak electrical capacity and adaptability within the unforgiving desert environment.
Atamos-Tec united a diverse coalition of two international centers and five universities. Together, these institutions spearheaded the plant's launch, collaborating on everything from design and construction to sensor installation and complex data analysis. Ultimately, this work demonstrated how applied research can transform climatic challenges into powerful opportunities for sustainable development