Colombia warns of $204 bn per hour blackout risk as El Niño intensifies

The El Niño climate phenomenon is expected to strengthen through late 2026, bringing prolonged droughts and higher temperatures across South America. In Colombia, Vice‑President‑elect José Manuel Restrepo cautioned that a nationwide power outage could cost up to $204 billion each hour, highlighting the country's heavy reliance on hydroelectric generation, which supplies 65‑75 % of its electricity. He linked the risk to shrinking reservoir levels and recalled the 2015‑16 energy crisis that prompted emergency measures and demand‑side campaigns.

The Colombian Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (Ideam) projects the most critical period for the event between September and December 2026, with a 63 % chance of reaching “very strong” intensity. Potential impacts include reduced water supplies, strained hydroelectric output, agricultural losses, and increased disease risk.

Ecuador is also bolstering its power grid ahead of the El Niño season, adding 70 MW of thermal capacity and completing maintenance on the Gonzalo Zevallos plant, bringing total national generation to 6 004 MW—81 % hydroelectric, 18 % thermal. Continuous monitoring and infrastructure upgrades aim to mitigate outage risks during the anticipated dry spell.