Ecuador is set to enforce nationwide nighttime power cuts and teleworking in the public sector as the country faces its most severe drought in over six decades, posing a threat to its hydroelectric facilities. The government’s decision, effective from Thursday onwards, is a response to the critical water shortage affecting the nation’s hydroelectric dams, which are crucial for electricity generation.
As part of the plan, there will be an eight-hour blackout starting at 10:00 pm on Monday to Thursday evenings to help manage the strain on the electrical grid. The timing of the power cuts aims to minimize disruptions to daily activities and work schedules. Additionally, teleworking will be introduced for public sector employees on Thursdays and Fridays for the upcoming weeks.
Earlier announcements included a scheduled blackout for maintenance purposes starting at 10:00 pm on Wednesday, accompanied by a curfew for security reasons. The Interior Minister mentioned the curfew as a precaution against rising gang violence in the country.
In April, Ecuador had already implemented electricity rationing for up to 13 hours daily due to the ongoing drought. The country is facing an energy shortfall of approximately 1,000 megawatts, with the government securing a thermal-power-generating barge to supply at least 100 MW of power.
Source: AFP