Now that several projects to build large power plants are underway, the major problem that affects power supply in the DR is the deficiencies regarding transmission of power. According to Carlos Jeremías Santana, who is the coordinator of the project for the development of the electricity market of the Commission for the Reform of the Public Enterprises, the deficiencies affecting the transmission lines are the biggest obstacle to reliable power supply. At present it is estimated that 40% of the power generated is lost due to deficient power connections. Santana explained that in the past this was not a major obstacle because there was not much power. But with new plants entering the system within the next years, the deficiencies of the transmission system become the biggest problem to overcome. In 1995, German consulting firm Deutsche Energi-Consultant Ingenieurgeselschaft established investments needed to be made from 2000-2015. The plan’s implementation is already behind schedule, says Santana. The Plan de Expansión del Sistema de Transmision contemplates investments in new transmission lines and substations for US$387 million during the 15-year period. The work would be financed in part by the European Investment Bank and the Investment Fund of Venezuela.
