After 14 years, since the last blackout in 2009 in Ecuador, the country is returning to rationalization. This was announced on Thursday, October 26, by the Minister of Energy, Fernando Santos Alvite. He said the cuts are being made to protect the system and avoid electrical collapse.

The Minister of Energy, Fernando Santos, announced the rationalization of energy of 4 hours a day in Sierra and Oriente; and 3 hours on the coast

What is known about power outages?

What is Ecuador’s energy deficit?

Minister Santos revealed that the current deficit is 465 megawatts.

Why does rationing occur?

Energy Minister Francisco Santos Alvite said the country is going through its worst drought in 50 years, which is affecting the country’s electricity production, which is currently critical. “This situation forces us to take temporary measures. We have had a deficit in electricity production for several weeks now. “They told us from Colombia that they are going through their own dry season, which has reduced energy supplies,” Santos explained.

Ecuador is on the verge of rationalizing electricity, and already has planned shutdowns in three provinces

Additionally, he blamed the problem on the lack of planning by past governments. “The reason for this problem is the lack of planning by previous administrations. We are looking for the best options for strengthening the country’s energy sector from the current government,” he said.

For his part, the executive director of the National Electricity Operator (Cenace), Gabriel Argüello, confirmed that “this year was extremely dry. The dry season started earlier and intensified in the month of October. This is why the water levels of the rivers are at critical levels.”