Quito, April 2, 2025 – Ecuador’s Esmeraldas III thermal power plant is set to enter its testing phase next week, marking a significant step in boosting the country’s electricity generation capacity. The project, which will add 91 megawatts (MW) to the national grid, is currently 80% complete, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mines.
Progress and Technical Specifications
Deputy Minister of Electricity Fabián Calero visited the site on March 31 to inspect progress and ensure that installation efforts remain on track. The first generation unit, consisting of eight out of sixteen engines, is scheduled to begin testing on April 8. Each engine has a capacity of 1.89 MW, contributing a total of 30.3 MW per generation island.
The project is managed by Austral Technical Management (ATM), which was awarded the contract on August 9, 2024. The total contract value stands at $89.93 million.
Logistical Challenges and Delays
The arrival of critical equipment began in December 2024, with the first shipment containing fifteen containers of essential components. However, logistical disruptions due to the Middle East conflict affected shipping routes, particularly through Lebanon, causing delays. By January 7, 2025, two additional vessels arrived with double the expected equipment, ensuring progress could continue.
Despite initial government expectations that the plant would be operational by February, favorable hydropower conditions have reduced the urgency for thermal energy projects. Energy Minister Inés Manzano noted last month that Esmeraldas III, along with pending thermal projects in Quevedo and El Salitral, is progressing at a steady pace but without undue haste.
Energy Outlook
President Daniel Noboa recently addressed the state of energy generation in Ecuador, stating that the country currently has a surplus of 700 MW for 16 hours per day. The additional capacity from Esmeraldas III will further strengthen the national grid, providing increased stability and resilience to Ecuador’s power supply.
The testing phase represents a crucial milestone for the project, paving the way for full integration into the national system in the coming months.