January 29, 2026

 

Chile faces the challenge of adapting its electrical grids to increasing electrification driven by electromobility, climate control, and distributed generation, with room to make adjustments if action is taken proactively, according to an energy sector specialist.

Bernardo Severino, head of Studies at the Center for Energy Transition at Adolfo Ibáñez University, stated that the current grids were designed for a centralized and unidirectional model, which necessitates updating planning and operational criteria in light of new consumption patterns, without implying an insurmountable limitation of the system.

“The electrical grids in Chile were not designed for the projected level of electrification, but that doesn’t mean the system is in a critical situation. What is needed is anticipation, planning, and prioritization of investments.”

The analysis indicated that the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, photovoltaic panels, and electric heating equipment shifts the user toward an active role, incorporating bidirectional flows and management requirements different from those historically seen. In this context, the necessary adjustments are associated with different planning and selective reinforcements, rather than a complete infrastructure overhaul.

Localized, Not Generalized Challenges

Severino indicated that the preparedness gaps are not uniform: there are critical points that must be reinforced according to the rate of electrification and local grid conditions. Along these lines, he stated that not all infrastructure faces the same level of stress, which opens up space for territorial prioritization and investment sequencing.

The analysis emphasized that the challenge is not primarily technological: solutions such as energy storage, electromobility, and efficient electrical equipment are available and their costs are decreasing. The focus is shifting towards systemic integration, coordination among stakeholders, and new operating practices consistent with networks that will need to manage greater variability and bidirectionality.

Data, Interoperability, and Cybersecurity

In smart grids, digitalization and data become enabling factors. The specialist highlighted challenges related to data governance, interoperability, standardization, and cybersecurity, in a scenario where the use of consumption data and responses to tariff signals becomes part of the system’s operation.

“Chile still has time to adapt its electrical grids, but that window is not indefinite. The decisions made today will determine whether or not the system can keep pace with the growth in electricity demand.”

Another technical point addressed was the reliability of supply as a condition for accelerating the adoption of new loads, particularly in electromobility. The academic argued that if the grid cannot keep up with the rate of penetration, user confidence will be affected. He cited as an example the need for specific investments to improve continuity of service in the south if the goal is to electrify heating using heat pumps.