Ecuador has an estimated wind power generation potential of about 2,000 megawatts (MW), with projects located across several provinces. To advance technical definitions and support further development, Corporación Eléctrica del Ecuador (CELEC EP) is conducting ongoing wind studies using 21 active monitoring towers in Loja, Guayas, Cotopaxi, Azuay, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Chimborazo, and Bolívar.
As part of efforts to implement the Corporate Wind Plan, 25 CELEC EP technicians attended a workshop on March 2 and 3 at the Villonaco Wind Power Plant Interpretation Center in Loja. The purpose was to strengthen technical coordination and inter-institutional collaboration for monitoring progress and standardizing criteria related to the plan. The plan aims to assess wind potential nationwide and improve planning for new renewable energy projects. It also seeks to address the seasonal nature of Ecuador’s electricity system by complementing hydropower generation and reducing reliance on thermal sources during dry periods.
During the workshop, participants reviewed management reports, social evaluation methodologies, wind resource measurement results, and lessons learned from previous contractual processes as part of a coordinated national technical effort.
The agenda included a visit to the Ducal Membrillo III measurement tower in Catamayo (Loja), which stands 120 meters tall. This infrastructure is considered strategic for collecting technical data on wind resources—specifically measurements of speed and direction.
Loja was selected as the location for this workshop due to its historical importance in wind energy development. The GENSUR Business Unit continues active work measuring wind potential at towers currently gathering data in six areas: Guachahurco, Naranjo, Paquishapa, Gualel, Quilanga, and Ducal Membrillo. This positions Loja as a key site for analysis and advancement of the Corporate Wind Plan.
“The Government of New Ecuador, through CELEC EP, reaffirms its commitment to rigorous and sustainable energy planning aimed at strengthening Ecuador’s electricity matrix with complementary renewable sources that provide security and stability to the national electricity system,” according to CELEC EP.
