Page 128 - STRATEGY Magazine (G)

PROFILE: ENERGUATE
ENERGUATE FOCUSES ON THE FUTURE
Energuate is a leading energy provider in Guatemala—especially in rural areas on both coasts. The company is committed to providing reliable energy to help support the development of communities throughout the nation.
“Guatemala is a country with great natural and cultural wealth; it is multicultural, multiethnic, and multilingual. We are a company committed to the development of Guatemala. We carry more than energy to millions of Guatemalan households; we bring quality of life and development to the communities.” —Jaime Tupper, CEO, Energuate
FACTS
Number of users: 1.6 million
Revenue: More than US $1.2 billion Coverage: 90% of Guatemala
Distribution network: 70,000 km of medium- and low-voltage lines, with 76 substations Employees: 3,282
Certifications: ISO 9001:2000, ISO 14001:2004, OHSAS 18001:2007
Bringing power to remote locations changes lives—brighter streets at night, well-lit homes, and food preservation through refrigeration are just a few of the benefits that Energuate has brought to rural Guatemala. Employing over 3,200 people, Energuate provides electricity to more than 1.6 million people. Its distribution network spans more than 70,000 kilometers and serves many rural and remote areas of the country.
Connecting to cultures
The company was established when ACTIS acquired two smaller power distribution companies in 2011. By 2012, a new company was launched under a new trademark, Energuate. Since ACTIS took over the management of these formerly independent energy outfits, sweeping reforms and changes have been enacted. Beyond providing safe and reliable energy, Energuate strives to foster relationships between the Guatemalan government and its population through cultural and social outreach programs.
The population of Guatemala consists of diverse ethnic groups with unique cultural practices. As part of the company’s social responsibility initiative, Energuate strives to operate in a way that is beneficial to the environment, the country’s people, and its investors. Reliability and safety are important, but so is establishing a connection with people of diverse backgrounds. In the last year, Energuate has added representatives who speak indigenous languages such as K’iche and Kaqchiquel to its 24/7 customer hotline to better communicate with consumers. A Customer Ombudsman program has also been deployed to serve as a dispute resolution service.
Internal improvements
Improving profits and reducing losses is a priority under the new company. Strides to reduce operating costs and streamline the corporation’s efficiency are major priorities. Recent milestones regarding this aspect of the company’s mission include a 2.87 percent reduction of losses due to investments in new processes and better equipment along with noteworthy advancements in occupational safety. In 2014, no fatalities were recorded, a significant accomplishment considering the high-risk nature of the energy sector. Reductions in accidents have earned Energuate an excellent rating from the Regional Energy Integration Commission (CIER).
Facing challenges
Providing power to Guatemala does have its challenges. The country’s topography can make distribution of power cumbersome. The region’s diverse communities present another hurdle— each part of the country has its own customs, business traditions, and even distinct languages. Working with these communities means that company representatives need to understand the nuances of each region’s culture and way of life to establish relationships with community leaders and business owners. To remedy these difficulties, Energuate distributes information in major Mayan languages and develops working relationships with government officials on national and municipal levels.
As for the future, Energuate intends to stay on its current path of streamlining its services and engaging in Guatemala’s communities. The company outlines its commitment to the safety and health of its employees as well as its commitment to human rights and the environment as part of its continued initiatives. Ultimately, the company’s goal is to become the most respected energy distributor in Central America by setting a high standard and a good example.
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