Blackouts are back

[NewsWhore]

Extended blackouts are once again being reported throughout the country. Though the reasons aren't clear, a lack of fuel, the government's inability to pay debts and technical difficulties are being blamed for the blackouts. However, Hoy reports these are just stock phrases wheeled out in order to appease frustrated citizens. The energy deficit totaled 1,000 MW while the national energy demand is 1,900 MW. Hoy also reports that eight major energy generators were out of service yesterday including AES Andres, Compania Electrica de Puerto Plata, San Felipe, Metaldom, Sultana del Este, EGE-Haina, Palamara- La Vega, Monte Rio and Laesa- Pimentel. Listin Diario reports that part of the problem is that the government has yet to pay the US$100 million it promised the energy generators. The government owes US$360 million. AES Andres alone is owed US$151 million. Listin is also reporting that AES Andres, which provides 20%, or 300 MW of the national demand, is out of operation for maintenance work.

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