Local electric cooperatives are key players in the transformation of the energy model. Their commitment to generating power from renewable sources is clear, and they actively promote collective self-consumption. Their non-profit nature and focus on delivering local and social benefits position them as pioneers in the emerging distributed energy model.
One such example is the Cooperativa Eléctrica de Callosa de Segura (Alicante, Spain). Through its subsidiary, Eléctrica Callosina S.L., the cooperative aims to generate electricity, as well as to design, build, operate, and maintain generation facilities.
Eléctrica Callosina S.L. has developed a distributed generation project rated at 2.42 MW, located in the municipality of Callosa, with connection and access to its own distribution network, managed by Eléctrica de Callosa de Segura, CVL.
This photovoltaic plant is capable of generating approximately 5,100,000 kWh per year — about 21.8% of the energy commercialized by the cooperative — delivering economic benefits to cooperative members as well as significant environmental gains. The facility avoids the emission of approximately 274,620 metric tons (t) of CO₂ into the atmosphere, contributing to the decarbonization targets set by the Paris Agreement and the European Union’s Clean Energy Package.
To optimize the plant’s performance, the cooperative has successfully installed a ZGR CTR 3000 Central Inverter. This inverter, designed and manufactured entirely in Spain by ZGR, underscores a clear commitment to innovation and to local manufacturing capabilities.
One of the most notable features of the installed Central Inverter is its modular architecture. The unit comprises four independent power modules, each rated at up to 750 kW.
This modularity is critical for reliability and efficiency: if one module trips or is taken offline, the system continues operating on the remaining modules, minimizing production losses and ensuring continuity of supply. This built-in redundancy is essential for maximizing energy generation productivity and investment returns. It also simplifies maintenance operations, with power modules replaceable in minutes.
The equipment also features an innovative industrial-grade air cooling system, featuring a dual-zone architecture with isolated power modules, independent control systems, and actively controlled ventilation. This architecture enables the unit to operate at ambient temperatures from −20 °C to +60 °C, with rated power up to +50 °C. Most importantly, it systematically prevents overheating, eliminates hot spots, maintains stable operation under both high and low ambient conditions, and maximizes energy efficiency.
The inverter has been optimally integrated into a metal skid along with the 20 kV grid connection transformer, complete with the required protection devices and direct communication with the plant’s control system. This compact, efficient integration simplifies operation and maintenance—critical for long-term plant availability.
In short: best-in-class CAPEX (outstanding quality-to-cost ratio) combined with highly competitive OPEX (very low operating costs).
In functional testing, the CTR 3000 kW performed flawlessly, meeting or exceeding targets across all tests, with full stakeholder satisfaction.
Collaboration to maximize performance for the Callosa Energy Community
The success of this project is the result of a strategic collaboration between Eléctrica de Callosa and several entities. For project development and operation, Eléctrica de Callosa partnered with COX. For plant design, engineering, and installation, it worked with WDEnergía. Finally, ZGR Corporación delivered the design, manufacturing, and commissioning of a 3,000 kW Central Inverter (CTR 3000) — a key asset for the plant’s performance and energy efficiency.
This collaborative chain demonstrates how combining expertise and confidence in local technology can drive high-impact projects, always aimed at delivering maximum performance for the end users: the energy community managed by the Cooperativa Eléctrica de Callosa.
Eléctrica de Callosa: Positive local impact and a boost for the energy transition
Este proyecto es un claro ejemplo de cómo las cooperativas eléctricas, apoyadas por la innovación de empresas fabricantes de equipos como ZGR Corporación, pueden desempeñar un papel crucial en la transición energética a nivel local.
This project is a clear example of how electric cooperatives, supported by the innovation of equipment manufacturers like ZGR Corporation, can play a decisive role in the local energy transition. Their ability to foster citizen engagement and tailor energy solutions to the specific needs of the community positions them as models for a cleaner, more sustainable, and decentralized energy future. The combination of state-of-the-art technology and local commitment is essential to advancing energy communities in Spain.
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