A Rio 2016 spokesperson said that temporary power supplier Aggreko has pulled out of a tender to provide generators to the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro next year, "dealing a major blow to organizers rushing to secure an energy source for the world's largest sporting event," according to Stephen Eisenhammer of REUTERS. The temporary power contract is a "vital part" of Olympic preparations, guaranteeing a stable and secure energy supply for int'l broadcasters, the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as back-up electricity for the venues. The "most experienced bidder pulling out on such a crucial contract is a worrying sign for Olympic organizers who are under huge pressure to cut spending as Brazil languishes in its worst recession in 25 years." Aggreko "did not immediately respond to requests for comment." It is "unclear why Aggreko pulled its tender, but the sources said they thought the firm had tired of two-year-old negotiations, as well as constant changes in both the scope of the tender and who would be paying -- the government or organizing committee" (REUTERS, 12/14).
