Venezuela implements power rationing amid electricity crisis

Venezuela is facing a significant electricity crisis characterized by widespread power rationing and blackouts. Authorities have attributed the instability to the El Niño phenomenon, which has caused severe droughts and high temperatures, impacting the Guri Dam—the hydroelectric source that supplies approximately 70% of the country's electricity.

In response, an energy saving plan has been implemented, expected to last at least two months. This includes mandatory daily rationing blocks for shopping centers. Establishments without private generators face eight hours of daily cuts, specifically from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Even centers with their own power sources may operate with reduced services, such as deactivated escalators and air conditioning.

The crisis is causing severe economic disruption. In Maturín, local businesses, particularly in the ice cream sector, report significant losses due to broken cold chains and unpredictable outages. Additionally, the Caracas Metro is reducing its energy load at stations to manage the shortage.