ENERGY CRISIS IN ECUADOR: ANALYSIS FROM AN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

The energy crisis in Ecuador poses an urgent challenge that directly impacts the quality of life of the population and the economic stability of the country. This analysis seeks to evaluate government policies aimed at guaranteeing access to clean and affordable energy, with special attention to rural communities and marginalized sectors. Through a systematic literature review, it is shown that a reliable energy supply is essential for sustainable development. The main strategies include the National Development Plan (PND) and the Electrification Master Plan (PME), which promote the transition to renewable sources and the modernization of electricity infrastructure. Both plans are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, in particular SDG 7. However, despite having an installed capacity of close to 7,500 MW, the country faces a deficit that could exceed 1,000 MW by 2025. This gap has led to planned blackouts that especially affect small and medium-sized enterprises, deepening social inequality. Faced with this situation, it is essential to promote public-private partnerships that make sustainable, culturally relevant and environmentally responsible energy projects viable, ensuring equitable and resilient access to energy