A feed-in tariff scheme to promote renewable electricity in Ecuador : has it delivered sustainability?

Ecuador has a large potential for electricity generation from renewable energy sources. Regardless of such potential, mainly thermal (non-renewable) and large-scale hydroelectricity has been widely exploited. In order to tap the potential of other renewables, a feed-in tariff scheme has been implemented since 2000 in Ecuador and it has experienced several revisions throughout the last decade. The main objective of this thesis is to evaluate the effectiveness of Ecuador’s feed-in tariff scheme in relation to sustainable development through the promotion of electricity generation from non-conventional renewable energy sources. For this, Ecuador’s feed-in tariff scheme evolution and design are scrutinized. Then, its effectiveness is evaluated in terms of attracting renewable electricity investments, providing energy security, decreasing greenhouse gases emissions from electricity generation, promoting energy access, and stimulating job creation. Finally, suggestions on how to improve the design of Ecuador’s feed-in tariff scheme are presented along with recommendations on complementary strategies and policies to this promising policy instrument in order to effectively achieve the final objective of promoting renewable electricity and sustainability in Ecuador