BEL says temporary generation capacity to begin operations by mid-September

By Zoila Palma:  Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) says temporary generation capacity currently being installed at the Westlake Facility is expected to begin operations by mid-September as the company moves to strengthen electricity supply and reduce the risk of further disruptions to the national grid.

In a press release, BEL said recent power outages have highlighted the importance of maintaining adequate generation reserves, particularly when electricity supply from Mexico’s Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE) is temporarily unavailable.

“Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) informs its Customers and the public that the Company continues to actively manage available generation and advance measures to strengthen electricity supply and the reliability of the National Grid.”

BEL said that on August 25, available in-country generation stood at approximately 103 megawatts (MW), while evening demand reached 122 MW. On August 31, available generation was approximately 109 MW against demand of 117 MW.

“On both occasions, the temporary loss of electricity supply from Mexico’s Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE), at a time when local generation was already below demand, resulted in temporary loss of power to the National Grid.”

The company said available in-country generation continues to be affected by seasonal conditions, scheduled maintenance and reduced output from some generating facilities. BEL said it is closely managing these conditions while working to ensure adequate supply is available to meet customer demand.

BEL also pointed to measures taken following an anticipated electricity supply shortfall identified in 2025.

 “As part of these efforts, BEL advised in October 2025 of a potential electricity supply shortfall in 2026, following which Cabinet made a declaration of emergency under the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) (Request for Proposals) Regulations, 2024.”

The company said the emergency declaration allowed it to procure temporary generation capacity, which is now being installed at the Westlake Facility and is expected to begin operations by mid-September 2026 for an initial six-month period. “

This additional generation will provide important support to the National Grid, particularly during periods of high demand or when another source of power becomes temporarily unavailable.”

BEL further noted that its August 26, 2026 letter to the PUC forms part of its ongoing regulatory responsibility to assess electricity supply requirements for the upcoming 12 months and ensure appropriate measures are taken to support Belize’s growing energy needs.

While BEL continues to strengthen available generation, it warned that controlled power interruptions or load shedding may still be necessary to maintain grid stability, particularly if a significant source of supply becomes unexpectedly unavailable. “BEL will continue taking all available measures to minimize any impact on Customers.”

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