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The national blackout that left all of Cuba without electricity this Wednesday worsened in the afternoon with the collapse of the hybrid electrical microsystem in Granma, an attempt to synchronize the Photovoltaic Solar Parks (PSF) with distributed generation.
The incident was reported at 16:58 due to the unexpected exit from Parque La Sabana because of cloudy conditions, as reported by the official journalist Jorge Luis Ríos Frías.
The disconnection plunged thousands of families in the eastern province back into darkness, who had partially regained service after the initial attempts to synchronize the National Electric System (SEN) in the morning, reported Cubadebate.
Two hours earlier, the local radio had celebrated that "For the first time in Cuba, it has been possible to establish electric generation through a 'hybrid microsystem,' which consists of the synchronization of the Photovoltaic Solar Park (PSF) with distributed generation."
Apparently, the anchoring did not work, and the synchronization of the photovoltaic park lasted very briefly. Authorities confirmed that restoration efforts have now begun "gradually," although without clear timelines.
The collapse in Granma adds to the one recorded hours earlier in Havana, where the capital's microsystem collapsed at 1:06 p.m., interrupting temporary relief in the neighborhoods of Guanabacoa, Arroyo Naranjo, and Boyeros.
Both incidents highlight the fragility of makeshift solutions following the shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras plant, the largest in the country.
According to the Electric Union, the current availability is 1,730 MW compared to a demand of 2,950 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,238 MW and massive outages affecting the entire country.
The forecast for peak hours was even more discouraging: an estimated impact of 1,790 MW.
The Ministry of Energy and Mines announced that Energás Boca de Jaruco had started operations to supply thermoelectric plants and substations, stating that more than 200 MW in electric microsystems would be allocated to "vital objectives" such as hospitals, bakeries, and water pumping. However, the constant collapses demonstrate that the system is unable to sustain itself.
The collapse of the Granma microsystem confirms what many Cubans perceive: each attempt at restoration turns into a cycle of false hopes followed by new frustrations. The population is caught between endless blackouts and official promises that do not address the structural deterioration of the electrical system.
With this Wednesday's event, Cuba has received its fifth nationwide blackout in less than a year, a sign of the technical and political collapse of a model that is unable to guarantee even electricity.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Electric Crisis in Cuba
Why did the general blackout occur in Cuba?
The general blackout in Cuba occurred due to the collapse of the electrical microsystem in Granma, exacerbated by the unexpected shutdown of several solar parks and the fragility of the national electrical system. This blackout is the fifth in less than a year, reflecting the technical and political collapse of a system unable to guarantee a stable electricity supply.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the electrical crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to implement microelectric systems to supply vital needs such as hospitals and bakeries. However, these systems have proven ineffective due to their fragility. Additionally, operations have begun at some plants like Energás Boca de Jaruco, but the shortfall in electricity generation and lack of fuel remain critical problems without a short-term solution.
What is the impact of power outages on the daily lives of Cubans?
Prolonged blackouts severely affect the daily lives of Cubans, causing food loss, challenges in studying or working from home, and impacting the operation of hospitals and essential services. The population faces constant interruptions in electrical service, leading to widespread frustration and indignation.
What is the current situation of the electrical system in Cuba?
The electrical system in Cuba is in a critical situation, with a generation deficit exceeding 1,700 MW. This deficit causes massive blackouts throughout the country, exacerbated by the lack of maintenance of the thermoelectric plants and the obsolescence of the system. The situation is particularly severe during the summer season, when electricity demand is highest.
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