Ecuador Strengthens Regional Energy Role with Electricity Exports to Peru

Ecuador exported 37.15 megawatts (MW) of electricity to northern Peru on February 24 and 25, 2025, according to Primicias. The energy flowed through the Machala-Zorritos transmission line, operating at 230,000 volts.

The Corporación Eléctrica del Ecuador (CELEC), through its Transelectric Unit, managed the delivery under the Ministry of Energy’s guidance. Peru’s electricity operator requested the supply to meet demand in its northern region.

The export included 16 MW on February 24 and 21.15 MW on February 25. Despite representing a small fraction of Peru’s daily electricity demand—6,837 MW in 2023—it underscores Ecuador’s growing capacity to generate surplus energy.

Heavy rains have boosted water levels at the Mazar reservoir, a key source for three hydroelectric plants with a combined capacity of 1,757 MW. This ensured Ecuador could meet domestic needs while exporting surplus electricity.

Ecuador has transitioned from importing electricity to exporting it, leveraging its hydroelectric infrastructure for regional integration. The Machala-Zorritos line, with a nominal capacity of 110 MW, supports short-term energy transactions between Ecuador and Peru.

Strengthening Regional Energy Integration

However, the current infrastructure limits the volume of exports. To address this, Ecuador and Peru are advancing a $290 million (R$1.74 billion) high-voltage interconnection project.

The planned 500 kV line will link Ecuador’s Chorrillos substation with Peru’s Nueva Piura substation by August 2027. International lenders like the European Investment Bank and Inter-American Development Bank are contributing $125 million (R$750 million) each to fund the project.

This new line will increase cross-border transmission capacity from 80 MW to 680 MW. It also forms part of the Andean Electrical Interconnection System (SINEA), which aims to create a regional electricity market involving Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Chile, and Bolivia.

The project promises economic and environmental benefits by reducing costs and integrating renewable energy sources across borders. It also enhances energy security for both nations while aligning with their sustainability goals.

Ecuador’s recent exports and ongoing investments highlight its ambition to become a key energy hub in South America, supporting regional growth through strategic partnerships.

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