Argentina’s First Energy Storage Tender Secures 1.35 GW of Bids

Wedoany.com Report-Jul. 20, This week, the Argentinian government opened bids for the AlmaGBA tender, initiated in February 2025 to procure 500 MW of battery energy storage system (BESS) capacity for critical nodes in the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area (AMBA) grid, enhancing reliability during peak demand.

Fifteen companies submitted 27 proposals, offering 1,347 MW of capacity and over $1 billion in investments, surpassing the tender’s 500 MW goal. Eligible BESS units must be new and provide power for at least four hours per full discharge cycle, ensuring dependable performance.

Administered by CAMMESA, the tender offers $10 per MW for supplied electricity, with storage bids capped at $15,000 per MW monthly. Contracts will run for up to 15 years from authorization or until January 1, 2027. Bids were due by June 10, 2025, with evaluations in early July, awards shortly thereafter, and contract signings starting July 28, 2025. Projects must be completed within 12 to 18 months, by December 31, 2028.

An Argentine Energy Secretariat official stated: “This tender marks a paradigm shift, prioritizing private investment and technological innovation to solve structural problems.” The project, involving distributors Edenor and Edesur, requires a $10,000 per MW bank guarantee and aims to strengthen AMBA’s grid.

The robust bidding response underscores global confidence in Argentina’s energy sector, advancing sustainable and reliable energy infrastructure.