Panama – Government Modifies Electricity Rationing Order

Government officials modified the current order on electricity usage for private and public institutions that is to take effect May 16. Obligatory energy-saving practices include the following:

• Large shopping malls cannot use air conditioners 1000-1500 daily.
• Supermarkets, casinos, bars, nightclubs, and theaters can operate on normal schedules if adhering to restrictions.
• Government offices operate on a limited schedule of 0830-1530.
• All electronic shop signs may only be turned on 1800-2200.
• Businesses with private energy sources such as fuel-powered generators can continue to use appliances at will.

If water levels remain low, energy officials may impose rolling brownouts or blackouts to reduce consumption, which in turn would lead to more significant business disruptions. Many large businesses have back-up generators to offset electricity shortages while small- to medium-sized businesses could be significantly affected by rationing.