Capstone Energy+ has secured a follow‑on order from Chile’s state‑owned energy firm EN AP to expand the microturbine system at the Gregorio Refinery, the world’s southernmost refinery, from 1.4 MW to 2.2 MW. The upgrade, slated for commissioning in November 2026, adds capacity to a remote, mission‑critical site that supplies diesel, aviation kerosene and fuels for Antarctic operations.
Capstone’s Follow‑On Order Expands Gregorio Refinery Power to 2.2 MW
The new order calls for an additional Capstone C800 Signature Series microturbine, bringing the total on‑site generation to 2.2 MW. The system will run on pipeline natural gas and is being delivered through Capstone’s authorized Chilean distributor, ISPG. Installation is expected to be completed and commissioned by November 2026.
Remote Refinery Demands Drive Expansion
The Gregorio Refinery, located in Chile’s Magallanes region, processes more than 200,000 cubic meters of crude oil each year and supports maritime, aviation and Antarctic missions. Winter conditions can drop below 0 °F with winds exceeding 75 mph (120 km/h), limiting maintenance access. EN AP cited the existing microturbine’s ability to eliminate reliability and cost challenges associated with conventional generators as the primary reason for the expansion.
Market Signal of Growing Latin‑American Interest
Capstone notes that the follow‑on order underscores “continued confidence” in its microturbine technology for remote, high‑reliability applications. The company highlights the project as part of a broader expansion in Latin America, where energy‑intensive operations are seeking clean, on‑site, always‑on power solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Capstone Energy+ will increase the Gregorio Refinery’s microturbine capacity from 1.4 MW to 2.2 MW under a follow‑on order from EN AP.
- The upgrade will be commissioned in November 2026 and will operate on pipeline natural gas.
- EN AP’s decision was driven by the existing system’s ability to resolve reliability and maintenance challenges in an environment where winter temperatures can fall below 0 °F and winds exceed 75 mph.
EnergyInsyte's Take
The expansion illustrates how utilities and industrial operators in remote regions are turning to modular microturbines to secure reliable, low‑emission power where traditional generators struggle. Executives should monitor the performance of this larger‑scale deployment as a benchmark for similar projects in harsh climates, while noting that broader adoption will depend on site‑specific fuel availability and regulatory approvals.
Source: Businesswire
