While current installed capacity for electricity generation (1,418 MW) is above the peak usage recorded (1286) MW), the Electric Transmission Company, S.A. (ETESA) needs to consider and plan the necessary actions that need to be taken in order for the system to increase the energy supply so as to meet demand in the coming years.
On that basis ETESA has formulated the National Interconnected System’s Expansion Plan 2011 - 2025 which was put to public consultation from July 14 to August 16, 2011.
The Executive Summary of the Plan, states that "projections for demand indicate that the National Interconnected System’s energy consumption could experience growth rates of between 5.7 to 6.0% as an annual average for the entire period analyzed, while the maximum power of the system could grow between 5.6 to 5.8%, these figures represent the most pessimistic socio-economic situation, and the most optimist power growth rates.
Source: CentralAmericaData.COM
More on this topic
January 2012
By 2026, the country will generate 78% of its energy from renewable sources.
The changes proposed to the Generation System Expansion Plan 2012-2026 have already been approved by the Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM).
In 2012, it is is expected to generate 50.5% from hydroelectric sources, 3.6% from geothermal sources, 3.5% from bunker fuel, 12% from biomass, 9% from the electrical interconnection with Mexico and 21.3% from coal.
January 2012
Over the next 13 years the country needs to invest about $6,000 million in order to meet the demand for electricity.
About 3,000 megawatts will be needed to meet demand over the next five years, including about 600 MW currently being generated by plants based on bunker fuel, which are scheduled to be removed from the system.
April 2010
In 2009, energy demand increased 12%, doubling the rate growth experienced in 2008.
If these growth rates continue, the relationship between energy generation and demand could reach a tipping point, leading to energy rationing.
The Public Services Authority places its hopes in 20 hydroelectric power projects that would open in 2010 or 2011, reported Laestrella.com.pa.
March 2012
In 2012, Panamanians will consume 1,286.5 MW of electricity, just 34 MW less than the installed capacity.
The trend towards increased consumption of electricity in Panama continues and has led to a situation where demand is about to exceed the available supply.
According to estimates by the Ministry of Energy, in 2012 Panamanians will consume a total of 1,286.5 MW of power, an increase of 5.8% compared to the previous year.
español
1895
