Dominican Republic electricity demand hits record high amid rising utility losses

In the Dominican Republic, electricity demand reached a record high of 2,507.48 gigawatt-hours (GWh) in August 2026. This surge comes amid an economic recovery, with the Monthly Index of Economic Activity (IMAE) showing 4.5% growth.

However, the electricity distribution sector faces severe financial challenges. According to the Ministry of Energy and Mines, electricity distributors (EDE) accumulated losses of US$1,098.3 million through July 2026, a significant increase from US$940.9 million during the same period the previous year. Consequently, central government transfers to cover these deficits rose by 33.9% to RD$68,673.1 million.

Climate factors are also impacting the sector. The ‘Super Niño’ phenomenon is driving up demand for air conditioning due to high temperatures, while simultaneously threatening hydroelectric production, which could drop by up to 50% due to reduced rainfall.