30-05-06

The Uruguayan government began a mandatory energy-savings plan as the nation's hydroelectricity generators struggle amid a lack of rainfall.
Previously, the energy-savings plan had been voluntary. However, "the current operations of the hydroelectric centres require yet greater effort to reduce the probability of service cuts in the higher usage months," the Uruguayan Energy Ministry said.

Among the mandatory measures, commercial and public buildings must cut interior and parking lot illumination by 50 % and shut off half of their elevators and escalators. Likewise, decorative lighting of outside porches, facades, gardens, and entrances must be turned off "allowing only illumination essential for security."
The ministry said the mandatory energy conservation plan was necessary because of "the prolonged drought and the context of regional energy difficulties."

During periods of normal rainfall, Uruguay's four hydroelectric plants generate enough electricity to cover the nation's energyneeds. Uruguay also holds emergency contracts to buy electricity from neighbouring Brazil and Argentina during lean periods. But those back up contracts have come up short because providers in Argentina and Brazil also face similar low water levels at hydroelectricity plants.
The lack of hydroelectric power has forced Uruguay to use thermal power generators that burn costlier fuel oil and diesel.