USTDA Deepens U.S.-Ecuador Partnership by Advancing Electricity Infrastructure

Arlington, VA - The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is funding technical assistance for Ecuador to deploy next-generation electricity distribution infrastructure, strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. USTDA and the National Electricity Corporation (CNEL EP), Ecuador's largest distribution company, has signed an agreement that will advance deployment of an Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) to enhance the efficiency and reliability of power distribution across Ecuador, including through AI solutions.

"We are deepening our partnership with Ecuador by connecting their infrastructure priorities with industry-leading American innovation," said Thomas R. Hardy, USTDA's Deputy Director. "Projects like this demonstrate how economic cooperation creates lasting value for both nations and sets the stage for deeper collaboration ahead."

CNEL EP selected California-based The Electric Power Research Institute, Inc. to conduct the assistance, which will help catalyze financing for the project by developing detailed requirements for a modernized ADMS platform. The assistance will assess both core systems and advanced AI-powered modules and predictive analytics capabilities. This comprehensive approach will position Ecuador to deploy state-of-the-art American technology solutions across its distribution network, generating export opportunities in advanced software platforms, AI-enabled grid management technologies, cybersecurity systems, and digital infrastructure equipment.

CNEL EP provides electricity distribution service to more than 2.7 million residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Ecuador. The modernized system will allow CNEL EP and the other distribution companies across Ecuador to improve distribution efficiency and reduce electricity losses, helping to meet rising demand.

Jenny Alexandra Desiderio Apráez, General Manager of CNEL EP, said: "This partnership with USTDA represents a decisive step toward modernizing Ecuador's electricity distribution infrastructure. The technical assistance will provide CNEL EP and the country's electricity distribution sector with a robust roadmap to improve operational efficiency, service reliability, cybersecurity, and the integration of distributed energy resources and emerging technologies. USTDA's catalytic support will help us define the technical, functional, and financial requirements needed to advance the future implementation of a next-generation ADMS. We highly value the opportunity to benefit from U.S. innovation and expertise as we work to build a more resilient, efficient, secure and intelligent electricity system for Ecuador."

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The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is the U.S. government's first mover on critical infrastructure development in emerging markets, advancing the shared strategic priorities of the United States and our overseas partners while creating opportunities to deploy trusted U.S. solutions. USTDA funds the upfront technical work that accelerates the development of infrastructure projects, helping them attract the financing they need for implementation and procurement of U.S. goods and services.

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