Intermittent power cuts spark worry in Pilar, Paraguay

Frequent and unexpected power outages are causing significant concern among residents and businesses in Pilar, Paraguay. Users have reported sudden interruptions to the electricity supply, impacting daily life and commercial activities. These outages have occurred without prior warning, leading to frustration and worries about potential damage to electrical appliances.

During a recent moderate rainfall on Wednesday night, the city experienced multiple power suspensions, with some lasting approximately 30 to 40 minutes. The disruptions have not only affected households but also critical services. Reports indicate that cellular networks were temporarily impacted, leaving the city partially incommunicado at times. A local radio station also reportedly went offline after one of its pieces of equipment was damaged by the power fluctuations.

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We work preventively and with continuous current, we do not cut the service so as not to affect the neighbors.

Marcos Troche, the regional head of the National Electricity Administration (ANDE), attributed the ongoing issues to modernization efforts. He explained that work is underway to replace cables and upgrade the electrical grid across various neighborhoods in Pilar. Troche apologized for the inconvenience, stating that these tasks are part of a preventive plan to enhance service quality and prepare the system for increased demand during the summer season.

Troche further elaborated that automatic protection systems can trigger interruptions when cables touch, a measure designed to prevent more severe damage. He assured that ANDE aims to conduct its work preventively and with continuous current to minimize disruptions. Transformer replacements have also been made at the Pilar substation to improve power supply, with ongoing expansion and modernization projects intended to meet current demand and support future industrial growth, potentially including a new industrial park.

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We apologize to the users and point out that the tasks are part of a preventive plan aimed at improving the quality of service and preparing the system for the summer season, when energy demand increases considerably.