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Panama Thermal Power Plant

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

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The AES Colón thermal power plant, situated at the Atlantic entrance of the Panama Canal, marks a significant milestone in Panama's energy independence. Commissioned in 2018, it is the first power plant in Central America to operate using liquefied natural gas (LNG). The facility has an installed capacity of approximately 381 megawatts, providing cleaner electricity to the national grid. The complex includes a massive LNG terminal with a storage tank that ensures a stable supply for both the plant and the surrounding region. By utilizing natural gas, the plant achieves substantially lower CO2 emissions compared to conventional coal or oil-fired facilities. This project has established Panama as a regional hub for natural gas and supports the transition toward a more sustainable energy matrix. The plant plays a vital role in stabilizing electricity prices and meeting the growing energy demands of the country's industrial sector.

Location: Panama
Nearby: Balboa (7 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	28	28	28	27	27	27	27	27	27	27
Rain mm	20	9	18	107	245	253	204	220	245	260	248	108

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Panama Thermal Power Plant is a large power plant that covers a significant part of the national electricity demand. It uses fossil fuels to generate electricity and secures the country's energy supply.

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Visiting

The plant premises are not open to the public, but the outer facility with cooling towers and chimneys is visible from surrounding roads. Visitors can view the industrial infrastructure from a distance.

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Where to view it

The best viewpoints are along the main road that passes by the power plant. From nearby bridges or elevated spots, one has a good view of the entire facility.

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Local products

The power plant itself does not produce local products for travelers. However, in the area, typical Panamanian goods such as coffee, bananas, and handicrafts are available at markets.

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Active season

The plant operates at full load year-round, especially during the dry season when hydroelectric plants produce less power. Demand is highest in the hot months from December to April.

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Nearby

Combine a visit with the capital, Panama City, offering the Panama Canal and the old town Casco Viejo. The Panama Viejo National Park is also reachable for a day trip.

Geography

Coordinates

8.85000, -79.50000

Facts

The AES Colón power plant commenced operations in 2018.
First facility in Central America to use LNG for power generation.
Features an installed electrical capacity of 381 megawatts.
Equipped with a 180,000 cubic meter LNG storage tank.
Significantly reduces CO2 emissions compared to heavy fuel oil.
The site includes a dedicated LNG regasification terminal.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Punta Culebra Nature Center3 km · SEExplore →

Omar Torrijos Recreational Park3 km · EExplore →

Torre Interbank3 km · SEExplore →

Franciscan Convent Ruins (Panamá Viejo)4 km · NEExplore →

Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús4 km · SEExplore →

Estadio Rod Carew5 km · SEExplore →

Biomuseo5 km · SExplore →

Estadio Rommel Fernández5 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the role of the thermal power plant in Panama?

It serves for the stable power supply of the national energy grid.

Can one visit the power plant?

No, for security reasons, entering the premises is not allowed.

What energy source does the power plant primarily use?

The facility primarily uses fossil fuels for energy production.

Are there nearby attractions?

The area is industrial; tourist destinations are located further away.

Is the operation of the power plant eco-friendly?

It is subject to strict environmental regulations for emission control.

Panama Thermal Power Plant: where is it located?

Panama Thermal Power Plant is located in Panama.

Panama Thermal Power Plant: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Panama Thermal Power Plant: why is it worth visiting?

The AES Colón thermal power plant, situated at the Atlantic entrance of the Panama Canal, marks a significant milestone in Panama's energy independence.

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