In an effort to combat a severe drought that has significantly reduced the capacity of hydroelectric plants, the Colombian government has rolled out new incentives to encourage reduced electricity consumption. The Ministry of Mines and Energy has announced that homes and businesses that exceed their average monthly electrical consumption will incur additional charges for each extra kilowatt-hour used. Conversely, those who reduce their electricity usage will be rewarded with discounts. These measures are intended to decrease consumption and aid in the recovery of local reservoirs.
Colombia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, Andrés Camacho, emphasized the need to curb electricity waste, particularly among large consumers. He noted that a decision to close government offices last Friday and recent rainfall have contributed to a 2% increase in reservoir levels over the weekend. Colombia typically relies on dams for 70% of its electricity, but the prolonged dry season, caused by the El Niño weather pattern, has increased the nation’s dependence on fossil fuel imports and natural gas-powered plants, which currently supply 50% of the country’s electricity.
The dry season, which began late last year, has also threatened tap water supplies. Authorities in Bogotá, the capital city, have initiated water rationing, dividing the city into nine districts and implementing rotating 24-hour water service interruptions. Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán has announced fines for wasteful water practices, such as car washing on the streets. He has also urged residents to limit their daily showers, especially on days when they remain home.
Warming temperatures in the Pacific Ocean typically result in heavy rainfall along South America’s west coast, but they can also lead to droughts in the continent’s interior, including the northern Andes. The prolonged dry season has also caused power cuts in Ecuador, which typically obtains 75% of its electricity from hydroelectric sources. Homes and businesses in Ecuador’s major cities faced at least three hours of daily power outages last week. President Daniel Noboa ordered businesses and schools to close on Thursday and Friday to conserve energy and facilitate reservoir recovery. The power cuts have persisted this week in several cities, including Quito, affecting hospitals, schools, and factories.
