Corpoelec announces preventive discharge at Lower Caroní hydroelectric plants

Venezuela's state-owned electric company, Corpoelec, announced a preventive discharge at the Lower Caroní hydroelectric plants on Monday, July 13. The operation, part of the 2026 Preventive Relief Plan, aims to regulate reservoir levels amid the current rainy season.

The discharge will begin at 11:00 AM and involves opening the dams' spillways. Corpoelec stated this measure is crucial for maintaining optimal and safe conditions within the reservoirs and ensuring the stability of the National Electrical System. The company emphasized that these maneuvers are coordinated across the four power plants in the Guayana hydroelectric system: Simón Bolívar (Guri), Antonio José de Sucre (Macagua), Francisco de Miranda (Caruachi), and Manuel Piar (Tocoma).

As a consequence of opening the spillways, an increase in the speed of the Orinoco and Caroní rivers is anticipated. Corpoelec issued a strong warning to fishermen, shipping operators, athletes, and the general public to exercise extreme caution in the affected areas. Those who frequent or recreate in parks and recreational spots downstream are also advised to be highly vigilant due to the potential rise in water levels and currents.