The Electric Union of Cuba (UNE) reported on July 23 that the National Electric System (SEN) continues to be in a critical situation, with service interruptions throughout Tuesday that persisted into the early hours of today.
The highest impact due to generation capacity shortage yesterday was recorded at 9:30 PM, with 1866 MW out of the system, coinciding with the peak demand period.
Availability and demand
At 7:00 am this Wednesday, the total availability of the SEN was only 1730 MW, compared to a demand of 3100 MW. This left a deficit of 1395 MW at that moment.
For the noon schedule, UNE estimates that the impact will remain around 1280 MW.
Main causes of the deficit
The situation is the result of multiple failures and limitations, both technical and regarding fuel.
Regarding outages, five generating units from the Energas Varadero plant and the thermoelectric plants Nuevitas, Felton, Renté, and Guiteras are reported to be out of service.
In addition, three units are undergoing scheduled maintenance at the CTE Santa Cruz, Cienfuegos, and Renté.
In addition, thermal limitations of 257 MW are recorded as being out of service.
Fuel shortage: another critical factor
The fuel shortage continues to exacerbate the energy crisis.
Currently, there are 92 inactive distributed generation plants due to a lack of fuel, which represent a decrease of 811 MW for the system. Additionally, five engines in the Regla barges are non-operational, removing another 40 MW from the grid.
In total, the SEN loses 851 MW due to this reason.
Despite the contribution of the 22 new photovoltaic solar parks, which generated 1,944 MWh with a peak of 483 MW during midday hours, the generation has not been sufficient to meet national demand.
Forecast for peak hours
In anticipation of the peak hours this Wednesday, the UNE expects the commissioning of unit 5 at the Nuevitas CTE, which would contribute 60 MW.
However, even with this income, the estimated maximum availability will be barely 1790 MW, compared to a projected demand of 3620 MW.
This is expected to create a deficit of 1830 MW and an estimated impact of 1900 MW, a figure that reflects the system's inability to meet the country's demand.
The situation requires prolonged and continuous power cuts throughout the national territory, with no immediate prospects for improvement.
The UNE does not provide details on possible short-term solutions, as the population has already been facing several consecutive days of widespread disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Electric Crisis in Cuba
What is the current electrical deficit in Cuba?
The electricity deficit in Cuba exceeds 1900 MW, according to the latest update from the Electric Union of Cuba (UNE). The critical situation of the National Electric System (SEN) has led to prolonged blackouts across the country, exacerbated by a lack of generation capacity and fuel supply issues.
What are the main causes of the electricity shortage in Cuba?
The electrical deficit in Cuba is due to multiple failures and limitations, both technical and fuel-related. Breakdowns in generating units and the lack of fuel are the main causes. Furthermore, outdated thermal power plants and inadequate maintenance contribute to the critical situation of the Cuban electrical system.
How does this electricity crisis affect the Cuban population?
The Cuban population faces prolonged blackouts that impact daily life, including food preservation, access to water, and the operation of essential services such as hospitals and schools. In some cases, blackouts exceed 18 hours a day, especially during the summer, which worsens living conditions.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the electricity crisis?
Although the Electric Union of Cuba (UNE) mentions efforts to restore out-of-service units and improve fuel distribution, no concrete short-term structural solutions have been presented. The reliance on outdated infrastructure and the scarcity of resources continue to be significant obstacles to resolving the crisis.
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