Electricity at Huinay

In September 2002, the San Ignacio del Huinay Foundation commenced the operations of a through-flow hydroelectric plant as part of its commitment to the community as well as an essential element in its larger development project.

The hydroelectric plant generates 200 kW of electric power. It comprises a machine chamber located at sea level where a generator has been installed together with its attached systems, pressure piping 430 meters long, with a fall altitude of 122 meters, two structures for water intake located on the Estero Sin Nombre and Tambor Chico beds and a transfer pipe that joins the two courses.

The installation of the hydroelectric plant was based on the Foundation's dedication to the principle of sustainable development, having low environmental impact. Thus the use of water power, the principal renewable resource at Huinay, was the best option.

The San Ignacio del Huinay Foundation also delivers electric power to the inhabitants of Huinay that include about six families (some 30 people). In addition, within the project, consideration was given to the consumption of the Huinay Public School, which now enjoys electric power supplied by the Foundation for the development of the education of the local children.