According to a report published by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) (www.irena.org), “Latin America has the potential to play host to some of the world’s most dynamic renewable-energy projects”; it is being buoyed by “rapid technology cost reductions and the consolidation of renewable-energy policies”.

In 2015, Brazil, Chile and Mexico ranked among the top 10 markets world-wide in terms of renewable-energy investment.

IRENA director-general Adnan Z Amin, said: “The proven business case of renewables, combined with the imperative to de-carbonise the energy sector, provides a compelling rationale for Latin American countries to continue deploying more renewables, including solar and wind.

“Policy-makers also increasingly recognise renewables as a catalyst for job creation, GDP growth, development of local industries and energy access.

“Add in the environmental benefits — plus the fact that nearly 2 million people are employed by renewables in the region — and the case for renewables is even more compelling.”