Government to end industry blackouts but an expert warns that long term solutions are still needed

The government announced Saturday that power cuts will end January 1 for the country’s largest industries. “With this suspension, the country will return to normal power distribution, without power cuts or rationing, ensuring a continuous supply for all sectors,” the Energy Ministry said.

As a result of recent rains, most of the country’s hydroelectric plants are operating at normal levels.

Originally announced as a total blackout for some industries and mines, the hours of power suspension have been reduced to three to five hours a day since December 22 due to improving conditions at hydroelectric facilities as a result of recent rainfall.

Former director at the National Electric Corporation (CNEL) Vincent Araya said Sunday that President Daniel Noboa has been “very lucky” with his decision to end most blackouts December 20, and now for heavy industry. “I thought it was extremely foolish and reckless when he made the announcement, but it appears he has been bailed out by the rain,” Araya said. “At the time, the weather forecast was not especially promising but that has changed. It now appears we will have above normal rain through early January and conditions look good for the rainy season that begins in a few weeks.”

Araya warned, however, that the government’s efforts during the energy crisis have been focused almost entirely on short term solutions. “The rented power barges and portable thermal stations are not the solution to the country’s problems in the future. Now that we have some breathing room, we need urgently to pursue planning for more permanent thermal and hydro facilities to meet the growing demand.”

The national weather service, INANHI, is predicting that high rain chances will continue into the first week of January.