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CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) President Hugo Chavez's government is relocating a gathering of top energy executives due to power outages.

The World Heavy oil Congress says Venezuelan authorities have moved its three-day conference to Margarita Island.

A posting on the group's Web site says the government advised organizers to relocate "to provide the best possible amenities" as the mainland struggles with blackouts. Hydroelectric power provides about 75 percent of the country's electricity, but Venezuela has been suffering from a monthslong drought.

Critics say Chavez's government is partly to blame because it failed to upgrade Venezuela's power grid.

The oil congress was originally planned for the eastern city of Puerto La Cruz. It starts Tuesday.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 10-30-09 1919CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list