Since 1984, the Fortuna Hydroelectric Power Plant has been delivering clean energy to Panama, fulfilling four decades of commitment to the country.
Located in the province of Chiriqui, Panama, Fortuna is the largest hydroelectric power plant in the country. It stands as a symbol of the perfect balance between technology and nature, generating energy with the power of water and transforming it into
clean energy.
Innovation Leading Change
Fortuna is more than just a power plant; it leads to energy innovation. Every aspect of its operations is designed to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact, solidifying its role as a vital pillar of Panama's energy infrastructure.
With an installed capacity of 300 MW, Fortuna meets 13% of Panama's energy demand, generating a maximum of 7.2 GWh/day and an average of 1,500 GWh/year. The hydroelectric plant can supply between 270,000 and 280,000 Panamanian homes.
Commitment to the environment
Enel Panama has a social and environmental commitment with the territory, promoting the protection of the Fortuna Forest Reserve, which is part of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor of the Panamanian Atlantic, in addition to the National System of Protected Areas of Panama, which comprises 19,500 hectares of cloud forests and is home to some 1,900 species of fauna and flora.
"In each project, we carry out environmental interventions that have allowed us to identify new species of flora and fauna, keep records of existing ones, and contribute to the protection and restoration of ecosystems. For this reason, we are currently prioritizing two objectives in Colombia and Central America: to achieve No Net Loss of Biodiversity for new infrastructure and No Net Deforestation by 2030," says Gian Paolo Daguer, External Relations Manager of Enel Colombia and Central America.
The Company also has an agreement with the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in which it maintains a permanent field station located within the reserve (Fortuna Field Station or "Casita Verde" or "el Vivero"), which provides a special and unique site for scientists from around the world to conduct studies on the biological diversity of the tropics.
Commitment to communities
Enel is committed to the social and environmental well-being of the region. Eight educational institutions near the Fortuna hydroelectric plant have received support through the "Good Energy for Your School" program.
Since 2019, with "Innovaplay," more than 800 children have had access to better education in entrepreneurship, energy, and environment. In addition, school gardens have been implemented to improve food security and have promoted reforestation and environmental education in the community.
"Seeds of Knowledge" is another program that helps build capacity in community agriculture and sustainable business development for communities near the plant. Fidel Santamaría is a program participant who trained to tend to his vegetables, chickens, and piglets
"I have 60% allocated for the business, and the remaining portion is for the house. I also support my neighbors," says Don Fidel. "The team from Fortuna conducts inspections of the land and its items. We also learn in the field about what is harmful and what is more beneficial. Ultimately, it's our responsibility to determine who makes the purchases."
Towards a Sustainable Future
The Fortuna Hydroelectric Power Plant is not just an energy facility; it serves as a cornerstone of sustainability and progress in Panama. With each megawatt produced, not only are homes illuminated, but we also pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future.
