Panama fines Naturgy electricity units over $68 million for service failures

Panama's National Public Services Authority (ASEP) has imposed significant fines totaling $68.2 million on Naturgy's electricity distribution companies, Edemet and Edechi. The sanctions stem from repeated failures in service quality indicators recorded between 2019 and 2024, which impacted thousands of users nationwide.

ASEP chief Zelmar Rodríguez emphasized the authority's commitment to defending consumer rights and demanding quality service. "Our commitment is clear: defend the rights of users and demand quality electrical service for all," she stated. The authority highlighted that persistent electricity supply problems disrupt not only a basic service but also daily family life, economic activities, and small businesses.

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Our commitment is clear: defend the rights of users and demand quality electrical service for all

Edemet serves western Panama, Coclé, Veraguas, and parts of Panama province, while Edechi operates in Chiriquí and Bocas del Toro. ASEP explained that the fines are intended to correct non-compliance and compel the companies to strengthen their infrastructure and improve service quality. Importantly, the authority clarified that these fines will not be passed on to consumer electricity tariffs. Any necessary improvements by the distributors will be closely supervised to ensure they benefit the public.

Rodríguez Crespo reiterated that companies are responsible for service failures. "No Panamanian should tolerate deficient service. Companies have the obligation to respond when they do not meet the required quality," she expressed. ASEP indicated these penalties are part of a more stringent oversight policy implemented in recent years and warned of continuous monitoring of regulated companies.

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No Panamanian should tolerate deficient service. Companies have the obligation to respond when they do not meet the required quality