Uruguay in Crisis, Restricts Energy

Montevideo (Prensa Latina) – The Uruguayan government decided Tuesday to apply restrictions regarding use of electricity and to punish those breaking established regulations with suspension of service, official sources announced.

The energy crisis affecting this nation is mainly caused by lack of rain, which has forced Uruguay to purchase electric energy from Brazil and Argentina and, according to official reports, has used up the 150 million dollar annual budget of UTE energy enterprise.

Some of the measures implemented by the Uruguayan executive to complement the April 28 Energy Saving Plan include that public and private entities may only use half their elevators and escalators during working hours, while neon advertising is only authorized for health and police centers.

As well, businesses may not illuminate their sales cases and buildings will turn off lighting in lobbies, gardens, and other decorative areas.

Presna Latina