Juan Gómez points out setback in the electricity sector and warns about increase in losses
The former Superintendent of Electricity, Juan Gómez, has expressed his concern regarding the current state of the national electrical system. According to the political leader, the country has experienced a significant setback in terms of distribution, a situation he directly attributes to the increase in loss indices of distribution companies and the lack of effective corrective measures.
During his participation in an analysis forum, Gómez highlighted that, at the beginning of the current government administration, losses in the sector were around 27%. However, based on official records, he warned that these figures have climbed to 38.9%, which evidences a progressive deterioration in the operational capacity of the EDEs.
Impact on service quality and billing
The former official stressed that the crisis is not limited solely to technical and non-technical losses, but translates into poor service for the citizenry. The constant user complaints regarding the frequency of power outages and the perception of high bills are clear indicators that the system requires urgent intervention.
In the distribution sector, the setback is total and complete. The problem has been in distribution and it is extremely pronounced.
Juan Gómez, former Superintendent of Electricity
Regarding the high amounts on the bills, Gómez clarified that they do not always stem from a rate hike, but can be the result of measurement problems or inaccurate consumption records. In this regard, he cited EDE Este as an alarming example, where estimated losses could reach 56%, significantly exceeding the national average.
Proposals for the sustainability of the system
For the Fuerza del Pueblo leader, the solution involves transforming the management of the distribution companies, which he described as the financial coffers of the electricity sector. Among the proposed measures are:
- Implementation of an aggressive plan for the reduction of energy losses.
- Priority investment in infrastructure: meters, transformers, and improvement of distribution networks.
- Technological modernization to allow users to monitor their consumption in real time.
- Increase in metering capacity to ensure fair and transparent billing.
Finally, Gómez acknowledged that the problems with the electrical system are a historical challenge that has affected various administrations. However, he emphasized that the responsibility of each government is to overcome inherited results and guarantee the financial and operational sustainability of an essential service for the development of the Dominican Republic.
