The Chilean government has appointed Manuel Nanjarí Contreras as the new Regional Ministerial Secretary (Seremi) of Energy for the Atacama Region, a strategic hub for renewable energy development in northern Chile. The designation was confirmed by President José Antonio Kast and announced by regional presidential delegate Sofía Cid Versalovic.
The appointment forms part of a broader effort to strengthen public sector leadership in key areas for regional development, with a focus on improving governance, efficiency and alignment with local needs.
“We want the administration of President José Antonio Kast to continue advancing with teams that understand Atacama, its challenges, and how to connect public management with real community needs,” said the regional delegate, highlighting the pivotal role of the energy sector in driving sustainable growth.
Manuel Nanjarí holds a degree in socioeconomics from the University of Valparaíso and specialises in Local Economic Development. He brings more than 15 years of experience in managerial and leadership roles across municipal, provincial and regional levels, with a strong focus on territorial coordination and execution of strategic projects.
In the public sector, he served as Regional Ministerial Secretary of Economy, Development and Tourism in Atacama (2018–2022). He also held positions as Director of Community Development in the Municipality of Caldera and Head of the Social and Projects Department at the provincial government level. In the private sector, he has worked on investment initiatives, community engagement, and most recently as a Project Manager in solar PV park developments.
Regarding his new role, Nanjarí emphasised that stabilising electricity tariffs will be one of his main priorities. “We are aware of the impact that electricity prices have had on household economies and small businesses. We will work to provide greater certainty and contribute to improving quality of life in the region,” he stated.
He also underscored Atacama’s vast renewable energy potential, particularly in solar power, noting that this must translate into tangible investment, infrastructure and opportunities for local communities. “Our focus will be on unlocking projects, strengthening transmission networks and energy storage, and ensuring that energy development delivers real benefits to the territories,” he added.
On his first day in office, Nanjarí held a working meeting with the regional Energy Secretariat team to outline key management priorities. He also met with Iván Lillo, regional director of Chile’s Electricity and Fuels Superintendence (SEC), to enhance institutional coordination on regulatory oversight, safety and continuity of electricity supply.
The regional delegate stressed that such appointments aim to ensure capable leadership with strong territorial knowledge. “The government’s hallmark in Atacama must be reflected in active, coordinated and community-focused management. We expect authorities who bring experience, dialogue and commitment to regional development,” she concluded.
With this appointment, the government reinforces its commitment to advancing Atacama’s energy sector, a cornerstone in Chile’s transition towards renewable energy, investment attraction, grid integration and long-term sustainable development.
