Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is grappling with a severe energy crisis exacerbated by one of the worst droughts in 61 years. The drought has significantly impacted the country's hydroelectric power plants, leading to widespread power outages.
Power Outages and Rationing
The city has been experiencing power cuts of up to six hours, particularly during the night. The government has announced that these outages will continue from Monday to Thursday, between 10 PM and 6 AM local time, affecting various parts of the city including residential areas and commercial districts. The longest power cuts are expected in areas such as Loreto, with outages lasting up to six hours.
Security Measures
To address the security concerns arising from the power outages, the military has been deployed to patrol the streets at night. This measure is aimed at maintaining order and preventing potential crimes that could take advantage of the darkness. Police and military personnel have been conducting inspections and patrolling key areas of the city to ensure public safety.
Economic and Social Impact
The energy crisis has had a significant economic impact, with daily losses estimated to be around $25 million, affecting both households and businesses. The Cmara de Industrias y Produccin has criticized the government's handling of the crisis, highlighting the need for better management and investment in the energy sector.
Government Response
The government has implemented various measures to mitigate the crisis, including telework for public sector employees on Thursdays and Fridays to reduce energy consumption. Additionally, the government has announced plans to cover 50% of electricity bills for households in affected areas. However, experts argue that the crisis could have been avoided with better planning and investment in diverse energy sources, such as thermal power plants, which have seen a significant reduction in production over the past few years.
