Ecuador Seeks 90-110 MW Barge Extension As Dry-Season Risk Builds

Ecuador is moving to preserve rented thermal capacity ahead of the next dry season.

Elecaustro opened a new process to rent a thermo-electric barge of 90-110 MW, aimed at extending operation of the Erin Sultan unit from Karpowership at Las Esclusas in southern Guayaquil.

Contract Signal

The process covers an initial six-month rental and operation period, with extension possible if system conditions require it. The reference budget is USD 42.7 million.

The tender was published on July 9, 2026, in Sercop.

The dry season usually runs from October to March, when hydroelectric generation falls.

System Risk

Cenace warns that if new generation does not enter the system, Ecuador faces a 25% probability of electricity deficits during the next dry season. Cenace also says at least 893.7 MW of additional capacity is required.

Energy Minister Juan Carlos Blum has said the 2026-2027 dry-season deficit could reach 1,300 MW, while the government plan is to add 500 MW.

For investors and operators, the signal is continued dependence on temporary rented generation while firm capacity additions lag the dry-season calendar.