According to data from the CNA, less than 10% of Ecuador's shrimp farming sector operates on electricity.
The National Chamber of Aquaculture (CNA)
The National Chamber of Aquaculture (CNA) of Ecuador and the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MAE) have signed an agreement to promote the electrification of the country's aquaculture sector and encourage investments to enhance its competitiveness.
After identifying the main challenges, the CNA developed a technical and regulatory plan to modernize energy infrastructure. The plan is based on four key pillars: stronger regulations and connectivity, infrastructure upgrades, more sustainable energy tariffs and streamlined environmental procedures, and strategic investment in new energy solutions.
"Electrification is a key factor in strengthening the competitiveness of Ecuadorian shrimp, and this roadmap aims to create the conditions for private investment to play an active role in addressing the country's energy challenges," emphasized José Antonio Camposano, Executive President of the National Chamber of Aquaculture.
According to data from the CNA, less than 10% of Ecuador's shrimp farming sector operates on electricity, while the remaining 90% still relies primarily on diesel to power pumping and aeration systems.
The proposed measures are expected to reduce operating costs, improve energy security in production areas, and strengthen the international competitiveness of Ecuadorian shrimp.
In 2025, CNA and the Sustainable Shrimp Partnership (SSP) organized the first energy sustainability roundtable, known as the Energy Working Group. This initiative was launched to ensure access to "reliable and competitive" energy, particularly in island regions without access to the electricity grid.
The Memorandum of Understanding for Strengthening Ecuador's Aquaculture Sector Energy Infrastructure is the result of a collaborative effort between the National Chamber of Aquaculture (CNA), the Ecuadorian Export and Investment Promotion Corporation (Corpei), SSP, the Electricity Regulation and Control Agency (ARCONEL), and the National Electricity Corporation (CNEL EP).
