The Vereniging Surinaams Bedrijfsleven (VSB) has drawn the attention of N.V. Energiebedrijven Suriname (EBS) to the consequences of ongoing load shedding for businesses. During consultations on Tuesday, September 15, the need for a reliable and predictable electricity supply was central.
In addition to representatives of the VSB, other representatives of the organised business sector also took part in the discussion. According to the VSB, businesses are receiving increasing signals that the power interruptions are affecting their production, services and business continuity.
The organisation stressed that businesses must know in good time when they should take power interruptions into account. Although, according to the VSB, load shedding may be technically necessary to protect the stability of the electricity grid, insufficient predictability can lead to production losses and additional costs for businesses.
During the consultations, EBS stated that the available generation capacity is at certain times insufficient to meet the full electricity demand. According to the energy company, a backlog in investments in new capacity is among the factors involved, while demand for electricity has increased in the recent period.
When the expected supply is insufficient to absorb the load on the grid, EBS said it proceeds with scheduled disconnections.
Disconnection by feeder
The business sector asked to what extent economically important activities can be taken into account during disconnections. EBS explained that disconnections are carried out technically by feeder and not by individual connection.
Critical facilities, including hospitals and certain other essential infrastructure, are spared as much as possible. Where possible, the nature of an area is also considered. However, according to EBS, the interweaving of residential areas and business activities makes it difficult to completely separate households and businesses.
Possible measures for businesses were also discussed during the consultations. Companies can, among other things, use emergency power supplies, carry out work outside peak hours where possible, and invest in solar energy combined with battery storage.
The business sector called for particular attention to affordable solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises, the tourism sector and smaller manufacturing companies.
More generation capacity needed
In addition to the current electricity problems, structural solutions for the energy supply were also discussed. These included the expansion of generation capacity, future electricity demand resulting from new investments, and adjustment of the legal framework for energy generation by third parties.
The follow-up of agreements made during the Energietop was also discussed. According to EBS, the new legal framework for the energy sector is well advanced, but it still has to undergo a final review round.
The VSB believes that the current energy problems should not be treated solely as a temporary situation. According to the organisation, economic growth requires sufficient generation and reserve capacity, as well as timely investments in energy infrastructure.
The business organisation says it wants to continue consultations with EBS, the government and other representatives of the business sector, with agreements on investments, legislation and future energy needs to be followed up concretely.
