Chile’s mining regions receive major new investment boosts

The Coquimbo Region has approved environmental projects worth US$794.5 million for 2026, a 42 % increase over the total approved in 2025. The portfolio is dominated by energy and mining initiatives, including the US$188 million BESS Huañil battery storage plant, the US$150 million Lagunillas 94.5 MW photovoltaic park and its transmission line, and a US$290 million upgrade to the Las Terrazas solar park’s transmission and sub‑station.

Separately, Lundin Mining launched the Juntos Crecemos fund in the Atacama Region, combining its Candelaria and Caserones operations into a single social‑investment programme. The 2026 call, open until 5 August, offers up to 3.5 million Chilean pesos per project across five financing lines for entrepreneurs, micro‑enterprises, community organisations, sport, education, culture and environmental projects in Copiapó, Caldera and Tierra Amarilla. The fund aims to expand opportunities and support sustainable development in the mining‑affected communities.