[Stoves] LPG subsidy to be removed in Ecuador

[Andrew C. Parker]

Another step in the government's marketing campaign (I used to publish a  
small newspaper, so the process intrigues me).  For those of you who are  
considering a major product launch, take notice. (Keep in mind, El  
Universo is a major opposition newspaper, though recently editorially  
hobbled but not totally controlled.  I have not been following this story  
in the government owned media.)

<http://www.eluniverso.com/noticias/2013/08/14/nota/1288706/sube-demanda-cocinas-induccion-calentadores>


Important points to consider, when converting to electric cooking  
appliances in Ecuador and many other countries, is that electrical service  
is often a hit-and-miss affair, and service is often acquired(stolen)  
using appliance cord.  I hope to see that addressed in upcoming articles,  
probably coinciding with the next big service interruption or tragic  
electrical fire (which will compensate for the reduction in the number of  
tragic tank explosions).

I am not opposed to conversion to electric (it is still preferable to a  
wholesale switch to biomass*), I just don't have confidence that the  
government can meet the increased demand for electricity and provide it  
reliably.

*(My great fear is the government turning to biomass fueled power plants.   
I see biomass best used as a local solution, where appropriate, i.e. a  
sustainable supply without increasing ecological damage.  When it is  
proposed as a national, regional or global solution, mayhem ensues.  What  
little I have seen on state television hints that the current preferred  
solution will be patriotic reductions in energy use, which brings us back  
to biomass stoves.)