Industrial sectors face rising electricity costs in Argentina and Ecuador

Industrial sectors in Argentina and Ecuador are facing significant increases in electricity costs. In northeast Corrientes, Argentina, timber industry entrepreneurs reported that electricity now accounts for 30% to 40% of their variable production costs, with some bills increasing by nearly 100%. Business leaders argue that the current tariff scheme penalizes them by classifying them as “Grandes Usuarios” (GUDI). The Dirección Provincial de Energía de Corrientes (DPEC) stated that these hikes result from the mandatory transfer of costs set by national authorities and the removal of subsidies for commercial and industrial sectors.

In Ecuador, large-scale industries are preparing for a tariff increase effective October 1, 2026. Minister of Environment and Energy Juan Carlos Blum estimated that rates for high-voltage segments could rise from the current 12 cents per kWh to approximately 30 or 31 cents per kWh. The final rate will be determined by the Agencia de Regulación y Control de Electricidad (Arconel). Additionally, medium-voltage customers with high consumption are expected to face weekly scheduled disconnections starting soon.