Ecuador's Drought Crisis: The Hydropower Dilemma and Its Far-Reaching Consequences

Ecuador, once a hydroelectric powerhouse, now faces unprecedented droughts that jeopardize its energy infrastructure and economic stability.

An extraordinary drought has struck Ecuador, draining its rivers and reservoirs and leading to devastating power outages of up to 14 hours. This situation has raised fears of a looming global crisis. Just a decade ago, Ecuador was championing a transition to hydropower, banking on its rich river systems to fuel economic growth and reduce poverty. However, climate change has disrupted this vision.

The ongoing drought, intensified by global warming, has left much of South America parched, and Ecuador is feeling the effects keenly. Since September, residents have experienced severe daily energy cuts, crippling daily life. Major highways have become pitch black, and entire communities are without basic services, including water, internet, and cellular connectivity. Financial losses are staggering, with industry estimates indicating that the nation incurs $12 million in productivity losses for every hour of blackout.

Local citizens are struggling to adapt to the new reality. Children like 8-year-old Jacobo Flórez have to improvise lighting solutions for studies, while business owners like Gabriela Jijón, an ice cream shop owner, lament the state of their country. “My country is adrift,” she says, capturing the sentiments of many Ecuadorians as their once-thriving energy solution fails to deliver in the face of climate adversity.