The Ecuadorian government, through the Ministry of Environment and Energy and Corporación Eléctrica del Ecuador (CELEC EP), has completed the expansion of the Taday substation to 230 kilovolts in Azogues, Cañar province. The project cost USD 7.7 million and is part of a broader plan to strengthen the National Transmission System.
According to officials, Taday substation serves as a strategic connection point for transporting renewable energy generated in the southeast of the country to other regions. The expansion included constructing four new line bays equipped with primary equipment, circuit breakers, disconnectors, instrument transformers, lightning arresters, and control panels.
With this upgrade, energy from the Sopladora power plant will now be transmitted via a 230 kV transmission ring. This enhances supply reliability for electricity distributors including Corporación Nacional de Electricidad (CNEL EP), Empresa Eléctrica Ambato Regional Centro Norte S.A. (EEASA), and Empresa Eléctrica Riobamba S.A. (EERSA).
The improved infrastructure is expected to increase service reliability for about 4.1 million residents across Chimborazo, Tungurahua, and parts of Guayas provinces.
Previously, energy from Sopladora hydroelectric plant was sent directly to Milagro and Las Esclusas substations in Guayas province over distances of roughly 300 kilometers, which led to significant reductions in quality along transmission lines.
This construction created 75 direct jobs and involved hiring local services such as catering, accommodation, and machinery rentals—stimulating the local economy. Work began in July 2024 and concluded on January 3 with the commissioning of new bays.
“The Government of New Ecuador, through CELEC EP, works to strengthen the National Transmission System and ensure that energy arrives safely and continuously at homes, businesses, and industries—driving development and well-being for all Ecuadorians,” stated CELEC EP officials.
