Energy minister urges electricity conservation as extreme heat drives record demand

Santos said the government has launched a mandatory Energy Efficiency Plan for all public institutions through Resolution R-MEM-ADM-019-2026, requiring measures such as regulating air conditioning use, switching off unused equipment, scheduling energy-intensive activities outside peak hours, and monitoring consumption through quarterly reports.

The appeal comes after the country recorded three consecutive daily records in electricity demand, reaching a new peak of 4,330 megawatts (MW) following six record highs in July. The heat wave has driven heat indices as high as 48°C in Greater Santo Domingo and 50°C in Santiago Rodríguez, increasing the use of air conditioning across the country.

While stressing that people should not stop using cooling systems, Santos encouraged setting air conditioners between 23°C and 24°C, turning off lights and electronics when not in use, unplugging idle devices, maximizing natural light and avoiding the simultaneous use of high-consumption appliances during peak hours.

Despite the surge in demand, the minister said the national power system has remained stable, with 4,400 to 4,700 MW of available generation during nighttime hours, enough to meet expected consumption even after solar generation declines.

Santos also renewed his call for Congress to approve the proposed Energy Efficiency Law, saying it would strengthen energy-saving policies, encourage more efficient technologies and promote responsible electricity consumption as demand continues to grow.