Ecuador's Historic Drought Halts Hydroelectric Dams

Three hydroelectric dams in Ecuador, collectively known as the Paute Integral, have ceased operations due to historically low water levels caused by the country's worst drought in over 60 years. Authorities have implemented nationwide power cuts of up to 12 hours a day, expected to continue through Sunday.

Three hydroelectric dams in Ecuador, collectively known as the Paute Integral, have ceased operating due to historically low water levels amid the country's worst drought in over 60 years, Energy Minister Antonio Goncalves announced on Tuesday.

The major Mazar power plant is part of the Paute Integral. "The strategy now is to conserve Mazar for as long as possible to buy us time so that everything starts arriving," Goncalves told Reuters following a press conference, referring to generators and other necessary measures.

Authorities announced on Monday that nationwide power cuts would run for up to 12 hours a day. Goncalves mentioned that the dry season in Ecuador, which heavily relies on hydropower, had started two months earlier than usual. The power cuts are expected to persist through Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies.)