The National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) has defended its recently approved emergency power supply arrangement, saying the temporary measure is necessary to reduce persistent electricity outages caused by reduced regional power availability.

In a statement, the utility said the arrangement would provide access to up to 70 megawatts of additional electricity during peak demand through an extra turbine powered by Light Fuel Oil (LFO) or diesel.

The additional generation, it stressed, would only be used when needed to stabilise the national grid.

NAWEC said the emergency arrangement is designed as a short-term contingency measure and will remain in place for a maximum of 50 days.

However, it added that the period could be shorter if regional electricity supply improves.

“The measure will be scaled down or discontinued as soon as normal supply conditions improve,” the company said.

Addressing concerns over costs, NAWEC said the use of diesel is unavoidable because regional suppliers are also relying on more expensive fuel following the temporary unavailability of natural gas.

The utility noted that the additional generating capacity is not expected to operate continuously throughout the 50-day period, meaning actual fuel consumption and overall costs are likely to be significantly lower than the maximum projected scenario.

NAWEC acknowledged the hardship caused by recurring power cuts but argued that failing to act would expose the country to even longer and more severe electricity disruptions.

According to the company, the temporary intervention is intended to protect businesses and households, improve electricity reliability during peak demand, and bridge the gap until regional power supplies stabilise, additional generation comes online, and lower-cost fuel becomes available again.

The utility also sought to reassure the public that the emergency arrangement has received the necessary government approval and complies with the required governance framework.

NAWEC said it remains committed to transparency and will continue to keep the public informed, describing the emergency power arrangement as a targeted and necessary intervention aimed at restoring reliable electricity supply as quickly as possible.