CGE restores power and announces compensation after northern Chile weather event

Following a severe weather system in northern Chile, the electricity distributor CGE is working to restore power to Caleta Chipana and Río Loa. An alluvial flow caused the collapse of three medium-voltage poles, damaging critical infrastructure. To mitigate the impact, CGE has deployed mobile backup generators to provide electricity to these communities while technical teams reconstruct the permanent network. Full service via the main grid is expected to be restored by Friday, August 21.

In response to the widespread disruptions caused by unusual rains, high winds, and sandstorms in the Arica-Parinacota, Tarapacá, and Antofagasta regions, CGE has announced extraordinary compensation measures. Customers who experienced power outages exceeding 20 hours and suffered food losses are eligible for up to $40,000 CLP. Notably, this compensation does not require customers to present receipts or proof of purchase. For more significant damages, such as broken electrical appliances, customers must provide evidence to be processed through the company’s commercial channels.