What is Panama's power system like in 2017?

In 2017, Panama’s power system had very large installed hydropower capacity (54% of total capacity) and substantial VRE capacity (45.3%). The generation breakdown was 64% renewable energy (36% run-of-river hydro, 18% reservoir hydro, 8% wind, 2% solar photovoltaics (PV)) and 36% thermal generation (29% oil and 7% coal).

Does Panama need a cross-border electricity market?

In the absence of a cross-border electricity market, this interconnection was modelled assuming that Panama imports energy from Colombia at the high price of USD 200 per megawatt-hour (MWh). Because imports are likely the most expensive source of electricity, they will be required only if Panama’s internal generation mix is unable to meet demand.

How much energy does Panama need?

Panama expects total energy demand to more than double between 2017 and 2030 (+113%), with peak demand growing from 1.6 GW to 3.5 GW. Panama is currently connected to Costa Rica via a 300 MW transmission line. A 400 MW high-voltage direct current (HVDC) interconnector with Colombia is expected to be commissioned by 2022.

Will Panama's power system handle a higher penetration of VRE?

Table 3 presents the values of these indicators for the 2030 renewables scenario with an optimised generation capacity mix. Panama’s power system would still have enough flexibility to handle even higher penetration of VRE, as seen in the 2030 renewables scenario with investments.

Does Panama have a flextool?

Panama has taken part in power sector activities under the Clean Energy Corridor Central America (CECCA), for which it is a pilot country. Country experts expect to use the FlexTool in scenarios and studies by ETESA, CND and SNE.

What is the flextool engagement process for Panama?

The FlexTool engagement process for Panama started in October 2017, with a set of discussions during training on power grid studies with large shares of solar and wind.