Honduras Faces Electrical Grid Pressure, Urged to Invest in Renewables

Honduras is grappling with increasing strain on its electrical system, a situation that has prompted warnings from the Honduran Association of Renewable Energy (AHER). The association's president, Eduardo Bennaton, points to the government's recent energy sector announcements as indicators of the mounting pressure to ensure stable power supply and avert short-term blackouts.

The potential acquisition of diesel-based generation plants, as suggested by government plans, signals a reactive approach to securing immediate power capacity. Bennaton cautions, however, that this reliance on diesel is not only more expensive but also ties the country to volatile imported fuel markets. This dependence raises concerns about long-term energy security and economic stability.

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El reto real está en reducir el costo estructural de la energía, disminuir pérdidas y aumentar la eficiencia del sistema

While acknowledging that such measures might address urgent needs, AHER strongly advocates for a more strategic, long-term vision. The association stresses the critical importance of accelerating investments in structural solutions, particularly renewable energy sources like solar and hydroelectric power, coupled with robust battery storage systems. These investments, they argue, are essential for building a more reliable and sustainable national electrical grid.

Furthermore, Bennaton addressed the National Electric Energy Company's (ENEE) decision to shorten payment collection periods to 15 days. While recognizing this as an attempt to improve ENEE's liquidity, he emphasized that it does not resolve the fundamental issues plaguing the sector. The core challenges, he asserts, lie in reducing structural energy costs, minimizing system losses, and enhancing overall efficiency through comprehensive reforms. Honduras, he concludes, must transition towards a more competitive energy model characterized by stable prices, enhanced reliability, and clear regulations that attract private investment in clean energy generation.

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Honduras requiere avanzar hacia un modelo energético más competitivo, con precios más estables, mayor confiabilidad y reglas claras que fomenten la inversión privada en generación limpia y moderna