In the face of a challenging period marked by a lack of rainfall due to the El Niño phenomenon, El Salvador’s industrial energy supply remains stable and secure, thanks to the integration of renewable energies and private investment. This was emphasized by Eduardo Cader, the President of the Salvadoran Association of Industrialists (ASI).
“With the inclusion of renewable energies and private sector investors, we have achieved energy stability and security despite the ongoing context of reduced rainfall. Unlike neighboring Central American countries like Guatemala and Honduras, we have managed to avoid serious difficulties and rationing,” highlighted the head of the industry association.
Cader also expressed the association’s positivity towards the increasing number of companies within the country that are investing in clean energy generation. “We might now count hundreds of industrial enterprises whose rooftops are adorned with solar panels instead of mere sheets. While we acknowledge that there is still much to be done, we strive to encourage more companies to embrace renewable energies. It is the responsibility of all sectors to contribute,” he asserted.
On a separate note, Ingrid de Mendoza, the Director of Commercial Operations at Energía del Pacífico (EDP), shared data from January to June, indicating that natural gas contributed 33% to the country’s energy generation, followed by 15% from hydroelectric sources, 19% from geothermal energy, 12% from thermal sources, 12% from biomass, 7% from solar, and 2% from wind.
“Given the recent decline in hydroelectric generation, natural gas and Energía del Pacífico have essentially filled the gap that could have arisen to meet the country’s energy demand,” explained de Mendoza.
Going beyond, she further revealed that as of January 2023, El Salvador has transitioned from being a net energy importer in Central America to becoming a net energy exporter.
“El Salvador’s dynamics have shifted from being a net importer within the Central American region to proudly becoming a net energy exporter. From January to June alone, we’ve exported 312 gigawatt-hours, a milestone for the country. With the government’s measures, we are ensuring sustainable energy for domestic needs while providing contracted support through exports to the region,” de Mendoza concluded.
The successful integration of renewable energies, combined with prudent private investment, has undoubtedly positioned El Salvador as a beacon of energy stability and security amidst regional challenges. The nation’s commitment to renewable sources not only safeguards its own energy needs but also extends a helping hand to neighboring countries, setting an inspiring example for sustainable energy practices.