Ecuador Uninterruptible Power Supply Import and Export

Will Ecuador's energy shortage cause a recurrence of power outages?

Ecuador's energy shortage could result in a recurrence of power outages, particularly in the dry season of September through December. Ecuador has added minimal generation in recent years. In 2020, the Energy Ministry awarded two projects to the private sector: a 110MW wind farm (Villonaco), and a 200MW solar plant (El Aromo).

Why is Ecuador vulnerable to power disruptions in 2024?

Chronic underinvestment in the electricity sector has made Ecuador vulnerable to power disruptions. During a prolonged dry season in 2024, Ecuador's over-reliance on hydropower (78 percent of total generation) resulted in daily blackouts of up to 14 hours, hurting economic activity.

Where does Ecuador's electricity come from?

Ecuador's state-owned electricity company, CELEC EP, imports electricity from neighboring Colombia. CELEC is also increasing diesel purchases from Petroecuador to power its thermal electric power plants. Ecuador had a peak demand of 5,110 MW in May 2025, and according to CENACE, electricity demand grows by 360 MW every year.

How did Ecuador's power outages affect economic activity in 2024?

During a prolonged dry season in 2024, Ecuador's over-reliance on hydropower (78 percent of total generation) resulted in daily blackouts of up to 14 hours, hurting economic activity. According to Ecuador's Central Bank, power outages caused economic losses of about $2 billion in 2024.