Energy consumption and temperatures soar in Panama

Energy consumption in Panama has recorded a hefty  jump as temperatures have soared as high as 38 Celsius, and authorities have called on consumers to practice conservation.

In less than a year, electricity consumption demand grew by 49,000 megawatts. The buildup is attributed to increased use of air conditioners and refrigeration systems The growth is equivalent to a new generation plant with an investment of $150 million that would take around four years to build.

There are  850 000 customers around the country, puttinf more pressure on generation capacity, as we are in the dry season.

According to the Dispatch Center, the system has  an available capacity of 757,000 megawatts but  the availability is not 100% because not all of the plants can be set to operate 24 hours a day.

The authorities ask consumers to use only the energy needed and to turn off lights and appliances not in use.