The government announced on March 9 the launch of a public selection process to award a contract for the construction, operation, and maintenance of a 400 megawatt combined cycle power plant that will use natural gas. The project is planned for Ecuador’s coastal region.
The initiative aims to strengthen the National Electricity System and ensure reliable electricity supply across the country. The final contract will be awarded based on the lowest energy price offered, provided all technical, legal, and financial requirements are met.
About 80 representatives and interested investors from private companies and energy sector operators attended the official event in Quito. During the event, Minister of Environment and Energy Inés Manzano said: “Este proyecto tiene una previsión en cuanto a factores económicos, de inversión de alrededor de USD 838 millones, recursos que serán asumidos en su totalidad por la empresa que resulte favorecida al finalizar todas las fases.”
Technical details and investment guarantees were presented at the event. The concession period is set at 25 years and covers feasibility studies, final designs, land management and permits, securing natural gas supply, construction of both the combined cycle generation plant and its associated transmission line, as well as ongoing operation and maintenance.
Officials say that clear procedures have been established to encourage private sector participation in Ecuador’s electricity sector while strengthening investment mechanisms and legal security. Strategic planning in energy is expected to support productive and social development nationwide.
More information about the process can be found at https://www.ambienteyenergia.gob.ec/ciclocombinado400/.
