Ecuador Hydroelectric Plant Maintenance Planned, Not Tied to Colombian Imports

Ecuador's hydroelectric plants are undergoing maintenance as part of a coordinated, long-term plan, not due to a renewed reliance on imported electricity, according to the National Electric Corporation (CELEC). The interventions at the Agoyán, San Francisco, and Sarapullo plants are scheduled for completion this weekend, with Coca Codo Sinclair and Sopladora to follow in the coming months.

CELEC explained that these maintenance activities align with the Biannual Operation Plan (PBO), managed by the National Electric Operator (CENACE). This plan strategically schedules work on generation and transmission infrastructure to maintain the National Interconnected System's safety and reliability. The company assured that these operations will not disrupt electricity service for consumers.

While the maintenance was pre-planned, Ecuador did resume electricity imports from Colombia on August 5th as part of International Electricity Transactions. Minister of Environment and Energy, Juan Carlos Blum Baquero, stated this move aims to strengthen energy security and create a more robust, dependable, and efficient electrical system.

CELEC clarified that the upcoming maintenance for Coca Codo Sinclair will not halt its operations. The work involves removing sediment from the intake structures of the Coca River, and the plant will continue generating power throughout the process. The corporation reiterated that the national electricity supply remains secure during all scheduled maintenance periods.