Ecuador's Las Orquídeas Power System Nears Completion, Boosting Guayaquil's Supply

Ecuador's Las Orquídeas electrical transmission system has reached 80% completion and is set to significantly bolster the electricity supply for Guayaquil. This crucial infrastructure project represents an investment of $36.2 million and is expected to directly benefit 1.2 million inhabitants upon its activation.

Minister of Environment and Energy, Juan Carlos Blum, recently toured the project site on July 21. He was accompanied by officials from the Ecuadorian Electric Corporation (Celec EP). During the visit, they assessed the construction progress and the installation of key components for the new infrastructure. The primary goal is to enhance the reliability of the electricity service for both residential and industrial sectors in Guayaquil.

The project is slated to commence operations in the first half of 2027. The Las Orquídeas system includes a 230/69 kilovolt substation with a 250 MVA capacity and a five-kilometer double-circuit transmission line. Minister Blum indicated that the system's launch is anticipated for early 2027.

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The objective of the work is to improve the delivery of the electrical service and strengthen a key component for economic and social development.

Once operational, the system will serve 1.2 million people in northern Guayaquil and provide essential support for the major industrial demands in the area. Minister Blum highlighted that the initiative aims to improve electricity delivery and reinforce a vital component for economic and social development. He added that the project is designed to address structural issues within the transmission system, ensuring higher quality energy reaches homes and industries.

Las Orquídeas is part of a broader strategy by Celec EP to strengthen the electrical grid in the Guayas province. This initiative encompasses five projects with a total investment of $100.5 million. These projects include substation expansions in Esclusas, Salitral, and Posorja, as well as the completed expansion of the Durán substation. Collectively, these efforts are projected to create approximately 600 direct jobs during construction and enhance the electrical infrastructure for 4.39 million residents in Guayas.

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The Las Orquídeas transmission system includes a 230/69 kilovolt substation with a capacity of 250 MVA and a five-kilometer double-circuit transmission line.