Latin America and the Caribbean are moving toward more intelligent, sustainable, and resilient energy systems, with battery storage emerging as a key enabler for integrating renewable energy, reducing emissions, and transforming national energy matrices.
In this context, the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE), in collaboration with the Central American Integration System (SICA) and sponsored by Huawei, held the Second Seminar on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) on June 16 and 17 in Panama City. The event brought together experts, authorities, and private sector representatives to analyze the technical, regulatory, and cooperation challenges facing the region in this area.
Key topics included regulatory models for BESS, safety standards, grid-forming technologies, smart grids, and pilot experiences across Latin America and the Caribbean. Discussions highlighted that energy storage is essential to accelerate decarbonization and modernize regional power systems, while also strengthening national technical capacities.
The seminar also explored the design of energy communication networks for the next decade, the use of single optical fiber for multiple services, and the development of smart substations as critical enablers for managing complex energy systems. Additionally, the strategic role of transmission and transformation networks in the digitalization of the power system was analyzed, along with the use of optical technologies and predictive tools to improve operational reliability and sustainability.
The technical sessions included the exchange of international standards, global success stories, and technological advancements with direct applicability to the Latin American context, promoting scalable and regionally adapted solutions.
The event concluded with the presentation of key outcomes to OLADE’s LXIII Meeting of Experts, reaffirming the commitment of member countries to an energy transition based on innovation, technical integration, and regional cooperation.
