en.Wedoany.com Reported - The operator of Rio Tinto's Fénix and Sal de Vida lithium projects is advancing a power supply project in the town of Ciénaga Redonda, Antofagasta de la Sierra, Catamarca Province, Argentina, aimed at improving local energy services and supporting the growth of mining-related economic activities. The project is backed by an initial investment of $300,000 from Rio Tinto through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, along with contributions from other operating companies in the region.
Representatives from the Ciénaga Redonda community, the municipal government, and companies including AbraSilver, POSCO, Rio Tinto, and Galan Lithium jointly identified the actions required to launch the project during a meeting. The work involves installing utility poles, power lines, and a 200 kVA generator set, with an expected execution period of 45 days. Upon completion of the first phase, the system will provide single-phase and three-phase electricity services to the community.
The project will benefit households in Ciénaga Redonda, as well as local mining suppliers and businesses involved in civil construction, laundry services, catering, logistics, and other services currently supporting multiple mining projects in the Puna region. Located in one of the most remote areas of the Catamarca Puna, the town has hosted several public participation processes related to mining projects, with electricity supply consistently being one of the community's top priorities.
Mario Cusipuma, Mayor of Antofagasta de la Sierra, emphasized the importance of this initiative for local development and for strengthening economic opportunities within the community. The mayor stated that the project will not only improve residents' quality of life but also drive significant economic growth in the community by supporting the development of many Antofagasta residents currently working directly in the mining sector. He also highlighted the collaborative efforts of the municipal government, businesses, and the community in making the project possible.
In addition to the power infrastructure investment, POSCO confirmed a donation of 16,000 liters of fuel to ensure the community's energy supply during the initial phase of system operation. The agreement is expected to be formally signed with the Antofagasta de la Sierra municipal government in the coming days. According to the released information, the project includes a second phase aimed at introducing renewable energy through the installation of a solar power plant, transitioning the community to a hybrid energy supply system.
This initiative complements other projects promoted by Antofagasta de la Sierra to strengthen infrastructure and public services. The region concentrates a significant share of Argentina's lithium investment. Previously, Mayor Mario Cusipuma stated that powering Ciénaga Redonda is one of the community's priority infrastructure projects, alongside others involving healthcare, training, and infrastructure improvements funded through mining contributions, trust funds, and CSR programs.
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