The Electric Union (UNE) reported the disconnection of the Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant in Matanzas for scheduled maintenance that will last four days (96 hours), during which "urgent work will be carried out on the boiler."
This event will lead to a significant increase in power outages, with estimated impacts of 1,594 megawatts (MW) during peak demand this Tuesday, according to data released by UNE on their social media.
The Antonio Guiteras CTE, one of the country's main power generation plants, is crucial for the National Electro-Energetic System (SEN). Its shutdown further exacerbates the critical energy situation facing the Island, marked by constant and prolonged blackouts (of up to 21 hours a day in some areas), especially during peak consumption hours.
Official journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso confirmed on his social media that the shutdown is for maintenance work, but he did not provide details about the extent of the repairs or whether there is an alternative plan to mitigate the impact on the population.
This four-day shutdown comes at a critical time when five (5) thermal generation units are out of service and four (4) are under maintenance, according to the UNE.
Additionally, it sharpens the context of growing social unrest intensified by recurring power outages, which impact not only households but also commerce, production, and basic services. Users on social media have voiced their concerns about the duration of the blackouts and the difficulties they face in carrying out daily activities.
The UNE has not specified whether the maintenance will be completed within the announced timeframe or if the work might be extended in case of unforeseen circumstances. In the meantime, the population is bracing for days of significant electrical disruptions, which could escalate tensions amid an energy crisis that seems far from resolved.
The recent history of the Guiteras
The Antonio Guiteras CTE, one of the country's main power generation plants, has faced multiple challenges in recent months.
On October 18, an unexpected outage at this power plant caused a complete disconnection of the National Electric System (SEN), leaving the island in a widespread blackout.
Subsequently, on October 19, the Ministry of Energy and Mines reported on the efforts to restart the plant and restore electricity service.
Despite attempts at recovery, the thermoelectric plant has continued to experience problems. On October 21, the UNE announced that the Antonio Guiteras CTE was back online, but with limited capacity.
Most recently, on November 8, a gas leak was reported in the boiler area, preventing the plant from reaching its full generation potential.
The inadequate and unstable service of the CTE Antonio Guiteras has exacerbated the energy crisis in Cuba, characterized by frequent blackouts affecting both the population and key sectors of the economy. The lack of proper maintenance, aging infrastructure, and fuel shortages have contributed to this critical situation.
Filed under: