Electrical system resists earthquake and faces El Niño challenge

On August 20, 2026, energy sector authorities discussed how the power infrastructure handled a strong earthquake that occurred on August 10. The event caused the abrupt disconnection of about 18% of demand and put the system's resilience to the test.

The impact of the earthquake on the power grid

The tremor caused the disconnection of about 18% of the demand of the National Interconnected System. As explained by Juan Carlos Morales, XM manager, the severe imbalance generated by the load drop could have resulted in a nationwide blackout.

The situation caused an immediate increase in grid frequency, in addition to risks of overfrequency and voltage issues. Some connection equipment tripped due to protection mechanisms, and operators were temporarily out of communication.

Service recovery and resilience

Control center teams acted quickly to balance the system and coordinate restoration with operators. The task included locating isolated circuits that lost power and communication means during the event.

Most of the demand was recovered, demonstrating the response capacity and resilience of the National Interconnected System. However, the episode highlighted vulnerabilities and constraints in transmission and distribution infrastructure.

The challenge of the El Niño phenomenon

The next major challenge for the energy matrix, which is heavily reliant on hydroelectric power, is the high probability of a strong El Niño phenomenon. The situation brings risks of rising temperatures and a drastic drop in reservoir inflows.

To mitigate tightness and stress on the system, it will be necessary to maximize thermal generation. The continuous operation of the thermal fleet for more than five months will require rigorous coordination among institutions, new rules, and efficient resource use.

Rationing and infrastructure constraints

The Caribbean region, including areas such as Valledupar, Chinú, and Magdalena, is already facing overloads and controlled rationing. Rising temperatures increase residential consumption, exposing equipment limitations and delays in infrastructure projects.

Similar restrictions occur in the Northeast, the Eastern zone, and northern Bogotá. The uncertainty in inflows, which fluctuated between weekdays, requires preventive measures to preserve reservoir levels before the dry period.

Exports and energy reliability

Currently, energy exports to Ecuador depend exclusively on thermal generation. The intensive use of these plants causes wear and tear and demands prolonged maintenance, putting pressure on the availability required for the domestic market.

A comprehensive review of this situation and current rules seeks to guarantee energy reliability. The coordination involves the Ministry of Mines and Energy and the Energy and Gas Regulation Commission to anticipate risks and ensure supply.

With information from El Colombiano.