Minister of Energy and Mines (e), Roberto Luque, announced that there will be no power cuts until May 26, 2024

This Ministry of Energy and Mines release was published using machine translation.

This May 14, within the framework of the fourteenth press conference held by the Zonal Government of Guayaquil, the Minister of Energy and Mines (e), Roberto Luque indicated that due to the good weather conditions, the suspension of blackouts will be maintained until on May 26, nationwide.

«In the midst of the current energy crisis, we have achieved significant progress: what was previously generated in one day is today equivalent to a week of additional production each month. This progress has made it possible to avoid rationing programming in the country," said Minister Luque.

Regarding the Coca Codo hydroelectric plant, Sinclair recalled that technical problems at the plant could cause power outages that will be communicated to the population in a timely manner. Furthermore, in the last two days we have not imported energy from Colombia.

The authority reported that maintenance will be carried out at the distributors in Guayas, Los Ríos, Sucumbíos and Manabí. These works will generate sporadic and specific outages in cities such as Durán, Lago Agrio and Portoviejo. Specific details will be announced in due course on the website of the Ministry and the respective distribution companies.

In addition, the head of this State portfolio announced that he will travel to Central America and North America to negotiate directly with equipment suppliers, without intermediaries. During this visit, the equipment offered will be reviewed to guarantee its quality and efficiency.

Regarding the appearance in the National Assembly of Ecuador, on the energy crisis, it is necessary to address the impact of the collective contracts in CELEC and CNEL. Between 2018 and 2022, $588 million have been paid for protection actions and benefits derived from these contracts. “We are coordinating with the Minister of Labor to review these contracts, since they are harmful and financially unsustainable in the short term,” said Roberto Luque.

In relation to the Toachi-Pilatón plant, an agreement has been reached and a preliminary report will be signed soon. In addition, renting a barge is being analyzed.

In relation to a generator at the Doctor Enrique García plant, with 96 megawatts, it will enter into operation again after coordinating the arrival of a new generator with the insurance company. We continue with the cloud stimulation program in collaboration with INAMHI.

Finally, citizens are reminded that the 50% reduced rate will apply from May 29, as previously announced.

The commitment of the Ministry of Energy and Mines is to reduce and eliminate the current energy crisis, guaranteeing the continuity of this public service.