Santiago Cable Car Runs on 100% Renewable Energy

Santiago's beloved Teleférico cable car, ranked in the top 1% of tourist attractions worldwide, just switched to 100% renewable energy in a partnership that's redefining what sustainable tourism looks like.

The agreement between Turistik and energy company Colbún will supply 850 megawatt hours of clean energy each year to power the cable car's 4.8-kilometer journey up Cerro San Cristóbal. The renewable energy comes from Colbún's wind and solar assets across Chile, all internationally certified.

The environmental impact is immediate and measurable. This switch will prevent 170 tonnes of CO₂ from entering the atmosphere every year, the equivalent of planting more than 1,600 trees or taking 50 cars off the road permanently.

But the partnership goes beyond just powering the gondolas. Visitors to the Oasis station will soon encounter an interactive diorama showing exactly how renewable energy transforms their ride up the mountain. The display features a miniature version of Colbún's Horizonte wind farm, connecting the dots between clean energy technology and everyday experiences.

The Ripple Effect

This initiative adds momentum to Chile's broader energy transition while proving that major tourist destinations can operate sustainably without compromising the visitor experience. The cable car's 47 gondolas already featured solar panels and universal accessibility, but this complete switch to renewable energy elevates the entire operation.

José Ignacio Escobar, CEO of Colbún, sees this as a blueprint for how cities can integrate clean energy into their most visible landmarks. "We are proud to accompany Turistik on this path, adding innovation and environmental commitment to one of Santiago's main attractions," he said.

For Ricardo Suárez, general manager of Turistik, the move reflects a fundamental shift in how the tourism industry views its responsibilities. Operating on 100% renewable energy isn't just about reducing emissions. It's about inviting millions of annual visitors to witness sustainable technology in action.

The cable car climbs through Metropolitan Park, offering sweeping views of Santiago and the Andes beyond. Now those visitors can enjoy the ride knowing each rotation of the wheels is powered by Chilean wind and sun.

This partnership demonstrates how collaboration between tourism and energy companies can create visible, tangible progress that visitors can see and experience firsthand.