Petroecuador resumes SOTE pipeline pumping after Baeza fire

Petroecuador has resumed crude oil pumping through the Transecuatorian Oil Pipeline System (SOTE) following a fire at the Baeza pumping station in Napo province on October 1. The state-owned company reported that it has recovered five pumping units, restoring transport capacity to up to 220,000 barrels per day. This restoration is critical for supplying the country's three refineries and maintaining oil exports.

During the disruption, which saw a 37% drop in SOTE transport compared to its yearly average, some production was diverted to the Heavy Crude Pipeline (OCP). Petroecuador also declared force majeure on October 3, affecting transport, exploration, production, refining, and commercialization.

While pumping has restarted, technical reports suggest a full recovery phase may continue. Petroecuador aims to add a sixth pumping unit by October 7, which could increase capacity beyond 270,000 barrels per day. The company is currently conducting technical analyses to determine the root cause of the fire.