Does Ecuador need a new energy source?

Ecuador urgently needs to accelerate new investments in power generation capacity and diversify its electricity sources. The Energy Ministry announced plans to add 541 MW in thermal generation in 2025 including the rental of three barges (300 MW), Salitral project (100 MW), Quevedo project (50 MW), and Esmeralda’s project (91 MW).

Where does Ecuador's electricity come from?

Ecuador’s state-owned electricity company, CELEC EP, imports electricity from neighboring Colombia. CELEC is also increasing diesel purchases from Petroecuador to power its thermal electric power plants. Ecuador had a peak demand of 5,110 MW in May 2025, and according to CENACE, electricity demand grows by 360 MW every year.

What type of energy does Ecuador use?

Ecuador’s renewable energy is comprised of hydro power (5,419 MW), biomass (1550 MW), wind (71 MW), photovoltaic (29 MW), and biogas (11 MW). Hydroelectric power plants are in three regions: coastal (2 provinces), Andes (9 provinces), and Amazon (4 provinces).

Will Ecuador get a nuclear power plant?

In May 2025, Ecuador became a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The next step is to enact the legal framework to oversee and regulate nuclear energy. Only after the legal framework is in place could the Energy Ministry issue a public procurement for the first nuclear power plant in Ecuador.

How much electricity does Ecuador need?

Ecuador had a peak demand of 5,110 MW in May 2025, and according to CENACE, electricity demand grows by 360 MW every year. Ecuador’s energy shortage could result in a recurrence of power outages, particularly in the dry season of September through December. Ecuador has added minimal generation in recent years.

Will Ecuador's energy shortage cause a recurrence of power outages?

Ecuador’s energy shortage could result in a recurrence of power outages, particularly in the dry season of September through December. Ecuador has added minimal generation in recent years. In 2020, the Energy Ministry awarded two projects to the private sector: a 110MW wind farm (Villonaco), and a 200MW solar plant (El Aromo).