SEC Files Charges Against Chilquinta for Extensive Power Outages: Calls for Compensation Grow from Residents and Authorities

Original article: SEC formula cargos contra empresa Chilquinta por extensos cortes de luz: Vecinos y autoridades exigen compensaciones para todos los afectados

The Superintendency of Electricity and Fuels (SEC) has filed charges against the electric company Chilquinta for potential violations of electricity regulations, a decision welcomed by local residents and authorities.

The SEC reported that the distributor allegedly exceeded the maximum allowed times for restoring power during the severe weather conditions. At the peak of the outage, 170,445 customers were left without electricity, with many facing over 84 continuous hours without service.

This initiates an administrative sanction procedure, during which the company can present its evidence and appeals.

The charges were prompted by a presentation to the SEC by Congressman Nelson Venegas (PS), along with the Mayor of San Felipe, Carmen Castillo; the Mayor of Panquehue, Gonzalo Vergara; and the councilwoman of Calle Larga, Bárbara Farías, who voiced the complaints from affected communities regarding the prolonged power outages.

During the meeting, authorities outlined the seriousness of the situation faced by hundreds of families in the Aconcagua Valley and various areas in the Valparaíso Region, demanding strict oversight, penalties against the responsible companies, and compensation for impacted users.

«We were heard,» stated Congressman Nelson Venegas after the meeting. «However,» he added, «we are not satisfied with this situation because there is no benefit for the people if the companies are fined but the directly affected users are not compensated.»

«Thus, while we appreciate the sanction imposed by the Superintendency, we will continue to seek the compensation that the community deserves for the significant harms caused by the negligence and ineffectiveness of these companies,» the socialist parliamentarian remarked.

Senator Karol Cariola (PC) emphasized that «the prompt restoration of service is an obligation of the company, and they must now justify the delays that left many households without electricity for days.»

«Following this process, the Superintendency will determine the appropriate sanctions,» the parliamentarian added, stressing that families «cannot continue to bear the consequences of subpar service. We demand accountability, sanctions where applicable, and compensation for all affected individuals.»

It is worth noting that this situation has sparked various demonstrations and protests from residents in the Aconcagua Valley and other areas within the Valparaíso Region, as reported by several local media outlets.

We will continue to provide updates.