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The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) in its statement about the situation of the National Electric System (SEN) for January 17, 2025, highlights serious disruptions in the electricity service due to a significant generation deficit.
On Thursday, the electrical service was affected from 09:01 AM to 11:22 PM. The maximum interruption reached 1,554 MW at 6:30 PM, coinciding with the peak demand period. This figure exceeded expectations due to the unexpected shutdown of Unit 1 at the Santa Cruz Power Plant and Unit 5 at the Nuevitas Power Plant, which increased the pressure on the system.
Current panorama of the SEN
At 07:00 hours this Friday, the availability of the National Electric System (SEN) was 1,750 MW, while demand reached 1,950 MW, resulting in an immediate shortfall of 260 MW. By noon, it is estimated that the shortfall could rise to 750 MW.
Currently, the SEN is facing multiple complications due to faulty units and maintenance issues, in addition to the limitations in thermal generation that reach 310 MW.
Inoperative units:
- Unit 8 of the CTE Mariel.
- Unit 5 of the CTE Nuevitas.
- Unit 2 of the CTE Felton.
Units under maintenance:
- Units 2 and 3 of the Santa Cruz Power Plant.
- Units 3 and 4 of the CTE Cienfuegos.
- Unit 5 of the CTE Renté.
Critical situation due to fuel shortage in Cuba
A significant portion of the distributed generation is out of service due to a lack of fuel. In total, 432 MW are offline. This includes:
- 38 distributed generation plants, with a capacity of 215 MW.
- The Melones truck (170 MW).
- The Regla power plant (47 MW).
For peak demand hours, the reactivation of unit 8 at the CTE Mariel is anticipated, adding 70 MW, which would raise availability to 1,820 MW against an estimated maximum demand of 3,300 MW. This would result in a deficit of 1,480 MW, potentially impacting 1,550 MW of service during peak times.
The UNE recommends that the population and institutions adopt savings measures and be attentive to planned disruption schedules.
Energy crisis in Cuba and its impact on the population
The energy crisis that Cuba has been experiencing since 2020 is severely impacting the quality of life for its citizens, who are facing daily blackouts that last for hours.
The lack of reliable electric generation and the government’s inability to implement effective solutions have created deep unrest among the population.
The continuous power cuts not only disrupt the daily routines of Cubans but also affect essential services such as healthcare, water supply, and food preservation.
Despite official promises of improvements in the sector, the lack of investment, the deterioration of infrastructure, and the ongoing fuel supply issues have perpetuated the crisis, making power outages a painful constant in the life of the island.
Frequently asked questions about the energy crisis in Cuba
What is the current deficit in electricity generation in Cuba?
The current electricity generation deficit in Cuba exceeds 1,500 MW, severely impacting the energy supply during peak hours. This is due to the inability to meet the national demand, which greatly surpasses the available generation capacity.
What factors are contributing to the blackouts in Cuba?
The blackouts in Cuba are primarily caused by the shutdown of several thermoelectric units due to breakdowns and maintenance, as well as the lack of fuel affecting distributed generation plants. These limitations hinder the adequate coverage of the country's electricity demand.
How are blackouts affecting the Cuban population?
Blackouts significantly impact the daily lives of Cubans, making essential activities such as meal preparation and the use of appliances difficult. Furthermore, they create frustration and social discontent, particularly in the lead-up to important events like the holiday festivities.
What is being done to address the energy crisis in Cuba?
Until now, the measures implemented by the Cuban government have been insufficient to resolve the energy crisis. No effective long-term solutions have been established, and the population continues to suffer the effects of power outages, leading to increasing discontent and protests in various regions.
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