The member of government says the state is fully focused on effectively handling setbacks
In a public statement released on the 14th of January 2025, The Minister of Water Resources and Energy, Gaston Eloundou Essomba has revealed that the Southern interconnected grid is facing a production deficit of approximately 70 megawatts, primarily due to low water levels at the Songloulou and Edéa hydropower stations. This situation arises from an alarming water deficit of over 2 billion cubic meters compared to the previous year, compounded by an unprecedented 50% drop in interannual flow during the low water period.
The Memve”ele hydropower plant has also seen a drastic reduction in output, plummeting from 200 megawatts in November last year to a mere 35 megawatts due to critically low water levels. The ongoing shutdown of the Kribi and Dibamba thermal power stations since September 2024 has further exacerbated the energy crisis, leaving the Southern Interconnected Grid in a precarious position. The Minister in his recent statement emphasized that climate change is a significant factor contributing to the adverse conditions that are affecting water availability worldwide.
To mitigate these disruptions, the member of government said the government is implementing several measures, including the optimization of existing generation plants, the enhancing of fuel supplies to thermal stations, and encouraging industries to adjust their consumption patterns. Additionally, negotiations are underway to resolve ENEO’s debts with its suppliers, per the energy boss. Minister Essomba expressed regret for the inconveniences caused by these circumstances and thanked the public for its patience and understanding.
He assured citizens that the government remains committed to finding lasting solutions to restore normalcy in energy supply, as directed by President Paul Biya.
