Ecuador Announces Temporary Suspension of Scheduled Power Cuts

The Minister of Energy, Andrea Arrobo, announced on Monday, December 4, 2023, that the scheduled power cuts in Ecuador would be suspended from December 15. The suspension of energy rationing is related to the Christmas and New Year festivities. “We understand that this is a crucial period during which blackouts should be avoided. We plan to suspend them for this duration through careful planning and effective management of water reserves,” said the Minister.

The duration of the suspension is currently unknown. The Minister emphasized that the more conscientious citizens are about the restricted use of electrical energy, the longer the period of blackout suspension can be extended until the rainy season returns.

Ecuador is currently grappling with an energy crisis due to low water levels, preventing power plants from generating sufficient electricity. As an emergency measure, planned power cuts are in effect. On average, these outages last two hours per day for each electricity connection.