What is Ecuador's Energy Outlook?

Ecuador’s energy outlook has undergone a drastic change in recent times. The country is fast moving from conventional sources of energy to more clean, renewable-based energy. There is a shift from a heavy reliance on fossil fuels to nearly complete self-sufficiency through renewable energies, particularly hydroelectric power.

How much power does Ecuador need a year?

Electricity demand grows by 200 MW every year, meaning Ecuador should add 250 MW or 300 MW of new power generation each year. However, Ecuador has added minimal additional generation in the last three years.

Why is the Ecuadorian electricity sector considered strategic?

The Ecuadorian electricity sector is considered strategic due to its direct influence with the development productive of the country. In Ecuador for the year 2020, the generation capacity registered in the national territory was 8712.29 MW of NP (nominal power) and 8095.25 MW of PE (Effective power). The generation sources are presented in Table 1.

Is there a potential for electricity generation in Ecuador?

Based on what has been described, it is identified that there is a high potential for electricity generation in Ecuador, especially the types of projects and specific places to start them up by the central state and radicalize the energy transition.

What is the contribution of hydroelectric power in Ecuador?

This becomes an important strategic component within the Ecuadorian electricity production system. However, analyzed source by source, the greatest contribution is hydroelectric with 5064.16 MW of effective power of the total of 5254.95 MW, which implies 96.36% of the total renewable energy.

How much energy does Ecuador produce in 2022?

In 2022, Ecuador’s generation capacity was 8,864 MW, of which 5,425 MW (61 percent) corresponded to renewable energy and 3,438 MW (39 percent) to non-renewable energy sources (fossil fuels derived from oil and natural gas).