Antananarivo, June 17, 2026 – In response to the recent electricity disruptions reported across several parts of Madagascar, Jirama has stated that the outages are not the result of scheduled load shedding but are instead caused by voltage drops linked to the ongoing dry season. According to the national utility company, reduced water levels at hydroelectric facilities have affected electricity generation, leading to fluctuations in voltage across the power grid.
Jirama explained that the current disturbances are primarily due to the seasonal decline in water resources feeding the country’s hydroelectric plants. This situation is particularly impacting the Interconnected Network of Antananarivo (RIA), where a significant share of electricity production depends on hydropower. As reservoir levels fall, electricity generation capacity decreases in order to preserve available water resources, resulting in voltage drops and occasional service interruptions.
The company’s statement comes amid growing complaints from consumers who have experienced repeated and sometimes lengthy power cuts in recent days. While many residents argue that these interruptions resemble traditional load shedding, Jirama insists there is a clear distinction between planned power rationing aimed at balancing supply and demand and technical disruptions caused by reduced generation capacity or network instability.
The dry season remains a recurring challenge for Madagascar’s energy sector, which relies heavily on hydropower. To mitigate the impact, Jirama has implemented several measures, including cloud-seeding operations conducted in collaboration with meteorological authorities to help increase rainfall and replenish water reserves used for electricity production.
As the dry season progresses, concerns persist over the reliability of the country’s power supply. Managing reduced hydroelectric output and strengthening alternative energy sources will remain critical to preventing further disruptions in the weeks ahead and ensuring a more stable electricity supply for households and businesses across Madagascar.
