Curtailed renewables cost the Dominican RepublicCEFR A2
1 Feb 2026
Adapted from Guest Contributor, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Teah Rushing, Unsplash
A coordinating report shows renewable companies lost about USD 5.17 million between January and June 2025 because the system curtailed some solar generation. Curtailment means stopping or limiting renewable production even when plants can produce more.
As a result, state distribution companies bought more expensive fossil electricity and costs rose. Forced dispatch also pays some thermal plants when the system does not need their energy. Lack of modern networks and insufficient storage make it harder to use all renewable power.
Law 80-24 set aside funds for network programs, and experts say storing energy would help connect more solar power safely to the grid.
Difficult words
- curtail — To stop or reduce production or activity.curtailed
- forced dispatch — Making plants produce or send power anyway.
- thermal plant — Power station that uses fossil fuel to produce electricity.thermal plants
- storage — Keeping energy for use at a later time.
- distribution company — Company that delivers electricity to homes and businesses.state distribution companies
- network — System of lines that carry electricity to users.networks
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think storing energy is important for more solar power? Why?
- Have you seen solar panels in your area? How are they used?
- How would better networks help use more renewable electricity?
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