Authorities call for tougher power saving measures in gov't agencies

A heat wave has boosted power demand in several areas of Venezuela, while the power system is not prepared to meet the increased demand. Paradoxically, power authorities have decided to release excess water in Guri, Macagua and Caruachi hydroelectric power plants located in southern Venezuela, where most of Venezuela s energy is generated. 

Since May 9, authorities of the National Electricity Corporation (Corpoelec) in the southern region of the country are opening the floodgates to remove water, which has been accumulated due to rainfall on the headwaters of Caroní River. The water level of the Guri reservoir was 269.30 above sea level on May 22, according to official reports.

Although Venezuelan authorities claim that the power system has enough power capacity to meet demand, power-rationing plans have been implemented since March because several high-capacity power units are out-of-service due to maintenance works or failures.

Héctor Navarro, the Minister of Electricity, met with directors of different Executive Office s agencies and talked about the need of making joint efforts in order to meet long-term power saving goals.

He said that with the implementation of plans aimed at a rational and efficient use of energy, Venezuelan government agencies could save up to 1,200 MW per year.