The National Government, through the Corporación Eléctrica del Ecuador (CELEC EP), began on March 25 the ignition and testing of engines in bay number three at the Esmeraldas III thermoelectric project. This is part of technical efforts to restore and operate available energy for the country.
The process takes place while ongoing legal actions continue, with officials saying it is aimed at using existing infrastructure, verifying its operation, and strengthening the capacity of the National Interconnected System (SNI) under principles of efficiency, transparency, and technical rigor.
An agreement between CELEC EP and contractor Austral Technical Management (ATM) allows intervention in generation units. According to authorities, current operations do not represent acceptance of engine conditions or a waiver of state rights. The procedure does not create additional obligations for public finances nor change CELEC EP’s legal position. Judicial proceedings in both criminal courts and arbitration against ATM will continue to ensure due process and protect Ecuadorian interests.
Since March 21, a team of 60 technicians from Termopichincha, Termoesmeraldas, and Electroguayas have worked on verification tasks. So far eight out of sixteen engines have been started up, providing ten megawatts (MW). Officials expect that by March 31 all components will be verified so that thirty MW can be added to the SNI.
Testing occurs during peak demand hours from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., injecting energy into Ecuador’s electric system while following safety protocols that allow immediate suspension if any technical alert arises. CELEC EP leads these operations by supplying fuel and other materials required for functioning; ATM has contributed two technicians who facilitate access to units.
Government representatives said these measures confirm their commitment to making use of every available resource in order to guarantee reliable electricity supply across the country.
