U.S. links Tocoma, Macagua reactivation to its three-phase Venezuela plan

The U.S. Embassy in Caracas has connected Venezuela's energy sector revitalization to a three-phase strategy championed by former U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Following an addendum signed between the Venezuelan government and IMPSA to restart work on the Tocoma and Macagua hydroelectric plants, the embassy highlighted the immediate impact of the binational agreement on mitigating the country's energy crisis.

IMPSA, a U.S.-Argentine company, and state-owned Corpoelec have entered into a contract to rehabilitate and modernize the Tocoma and Macagua plants. The initial phase is set to add 160 MW within 90 days, significantly bolstering Venezuela's electrical grid. The broader agreement targets a combined capacity of 2,640 MW from both facilities. Specifically, 160 MW will come from activating units 5 and 6 at Macagua, while Tocoma's completion will also be addressed.

The accord between Corpoelec and IMPSA confirms the resumption of technical and engineering activities at the Manuel Piar (Tocoma) Hydroelectric Power Plant, alongside maintenance and upgrade work at the Macagua plant, both located in Bolívar state. IMPSA President Jorge Rafael Salcedo praised the central government's support for continuing the Tocoma project, calling it one of South America's most significant hydroelectric interventions. He expressed confidence in executing the project with maximum efficiency and quality, acknowledging the preparation and dedication of Corpoelec technicians.

Venezuela's Minister for Electric Energy, Rolando Alcalá, emphasized that the joint effort will enhance stability, redundancy, and megawatt capacity to meet the operational demands of Guayana's industrial sector and improve national supply. The execution by Corpoelec and IMPSA will adhere to established standards, aiming to bring greater stability and capacity to the national grid.