ECUADOR: President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador has taken decisive action in response to the country’s energy woes caused by a drought-induced reduction in hydroelectric power generation. With hydroelectric dams, the primary source of Ecuador’s electricity, operating below capacity due to El Nino-related drought conditions, the government has faced escalating challenges in maintaining a stable power supply.

Noboa’s decision to declare a state of emergency for a second time underscores the severity of the situation, as energy rationing and power cuts have already been implemented. The latest emergency declaration, set to last for 60 days, aims to ensure the uninterrupted provision of electricity to the public.

One key aspect of the emergency measures is the deployment of military and police forces to safeguard critical energy infrastructure.