Reunion: Utility warns of power shortages amid strike, Oct. 18

EDF (Electricte de France), Reunion Island's electricity provider, has announced the island-wide implementation of rolling power cuts from Oct. 18 due to an ongoing workers' strike. Striking workers are demanding authorities respect an agreement signed in September 2023. On Reunion Island, the strike, which began at 22:00 on Oct. 17, has impeded the production of the Abioma du Gol and the Bois Rouge powerplants, causing an overnight blackout in certain areas. As of Oct. 18, the utility began implementing two-hour-long power cuts from 06:30. The following areas have been affected: Le Tampon, Saint-Andre, Saint-Pierre, Saint-Paul, Saint-Benoit, Saint-Denis, Saint-Leu, Bras-Panon, Petite-Ile, Saint-Joseph, Saint-Louis, Les Trois-Bassins, les Avirons, Saint-Marie, and La Saline.

Further disruptions are possible throughout the strike. Authorities have warned residents to limit electricity consumption by switching off electric appliances, avoiding the use of high-consumption appliances, and only recharging electric vehicles in emergencies. Cellular, internet, and mobile services could be adversely affected. Traffic disruptions and longer driving times are possible during these periods due to malfunctioning traffic signals. Power outages could also result in the temporary unavailability of essential services such as ATMs and filling stations. Water supply outages or decreases in water pressure may occur in areas that rely on electrical pumps for water flow. In cases of longer periods without power, ordinary electricity alternatives could not suffice to maintain continuous output due to increased generator fuel consumption, increased wear, and the likelihood of breakdown, and require longer battery life for appliances.