Power cuts loom as Ecuador’s energy crisis continues

Significance

With water levels at hydroelectric dams low, the government has taken emergency measures in an attempt to prevent cuts, including contracting a floating electricity station from Turkish multinational Karpowership to supply electricity to the national grid.

Impacts

• Concerns over the reliability of electricity supply will deter private investment and limit economic growth.
• Failure to prevent further rationing would reduce popular support for Noboa, especially if efforts are seen to be managed chaotically.
• Some opposition figures will seek to gain from the electricity crisis by highlighting the relative stability of supplies under Correa.