SQM Recognized for Its Technological Contribution to the Antofagasta Region

During the dinner organized by the Antofagasta Industrial Association (AIA) to commemorate Mining Month, different topics of interest related to the mining industry and the development of the Antofagasta Region were discussed.

Corporate executives, trade association leaders and regional authorities came together at the traditional mining industry dinner to discuss the main challenges for the economy and the industry. At the event, SQM was recognized for its contribution to technological development and its efforts to promote electromobility by installing an Ecocharger for electric cars.

After a call from AIA President Marko Razmilic for the mining industry to prioritize human capital development, several acknowledgments were made. First various AIA member companies were recognized for their roles as strategic sponsors, including:   SQM, Altonorte, Antofagasta Minerals, Codelco, Escondida, FCAB, Grupo Gómez; Lomas Bayas, Spence and SICEP.

SQM Recognition

SQM was also recognized in the category of “Technological Contribution” for the Ecocharger project for electric cars, a solar-powered system that aims to develop and foster electromobility. The company implemented this project in its role as global leaders in the production of lithium–a key input in manufacturing lithium-ion batteries.

Germán Pérez, Planning and Research Manager, explained that: “We built a charging station fed by solar panels to supply energy to electric vehicles used at our facilities. This project is fully reproducible anywhere in the region, so we invite all mining and other companies to replicate this innovative idea that helps reduce greenhouse gases generated by fossil fuels.”

Driven by SQM and Copec, this initiative is ground-breaking in South America and is already operating in the Salar del Carmen at the facility where SQM produces lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide.

SQM, a company with multiple business lines that is present in industries that are strategic for human development (food, technology and health), was also recognized for its contribution to human capital development in the region because of its support of a project to build Don Bosco Technical High School in Calama.

On the topic, José Miguel Berguño, Nitrates and Iodine Operations Senior Vice-President, highlighted that “as a company we are very proud to be part of the AIA, an alliance that allows us to strengthen ties with the community and implement diverse educational initiatives that fortify technical-professional learning in northern Chile.”

Don Bosco Technical High School is in the fourth phase of construction and currently has 900 students. Enrollment is expected to double once construction is completed.