24APR24- ⚡"The levels of the reservoirs of the main hydroelectric plants in south-central Ecuador: Mazar, Amaluza and Sopladora are between three and 15 meters above the minimum levels necessary for function, according to reports from the Electric Corporation of Ecuador. These three reservoirs, which are located in a cascade, are part of the Paute hydroelectricity producing complex.

The rains recorded in recent days have helped the levels rise, since a week ago they recorded values ​​even below the minimums. When this happens, the plants that depend on these reservoirs must go out of service. The thing is that in these days, alarming reservoir losses were generated that further deepened the electrical crisis that led the country to record blackouts of up to nine hours.

The Mazar elevation, which is located at the highest part of this type of waterfall, was located on April 24 at 2,113 meters. It is a positive figure if you take into account that the minimum is 2,098, however it is still a parameter far from the maximum which is 2,153 meters. Amaluza follows with 1,980 meters.

That is, five meters above the minimum. This reservoir has a minimum of 1,975 meters and a maximum of 1,991. Finally, Sopladora, whose minimum level is 1,312 and its maximum level is 1,318, is now at 1,315 meters, that is, three meters above the critical level.

Minister Roberto Luque himself explained on the afternoon of April 23 that climatic conditions remained at positive levels and that the basins have increased levels. This has served to somewhat reduce the magnitude of cuts, he commented.

The minister said that thanks to the rains, the Mazar reservoir has been improved by 1.2 meters between April 21 and 22, and 5 meters since April 17, which for Luque is positive. This has allowed us to open a second unit in Mazar.

He also assured that it is being monitored day by day. Fernando Salinas, an expert in energy and electrical issues, explains that the water level is still low and comments that the vital liquid is not stored, but is being continuously turbined. This means that it goes to the turbines to generate the necessary electricity.

On the subject, the government's plan is still unclear. The minister had announced the hiring of barges and the import of gas as measures. However, this has raised doubts among experts. It has even been commented that the minister does not have the necessary experience, which is why he had even proposed creating a technical team with professionals, experts and officials, to find the most effective solutions." -

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