The Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant in Matanzas, after its unexpected shutdown in the early morning that caused another massive blackout in Cuba, began its startup process this Wednesday with the aim of generating electricity starting at 8:00 p.m., following the resolution of a technical issue in the automatic control system of a valve.
According to engineer Román Pérez Castañeda, technical deputy director of the largest unified block on the Island, the success of this process will depend on the stability of the electrical subsystem that powers the plant, journalist José Miguel Solís reported on Facebook.
Pérez explained that the starting process is a complex procedure that is monitored and controlled from the national freight office.
This monitoring is essential for balancing generation and consumption, as well as maintaining electrical frequency at appropriate levels, not just in the power plant, but throughout the entire western subsystem.
Since early morning, when the disconnection of the National Electric System (SEN) occurred, efforts have been made intensively to consolidate isolated subsystems, known as "islands," in key regions such as Havana and Cienfuegos.
These subsystems have prioritized hospitals, water supply centers, and other essential services, successfully restoring supply in several circuits of Matanzas.
The start of the startup process at Antonio Guiteras is a significant step towards strengthening the electrical microsystem in the western part of the country.
If the process is successful and system stability is maintained, it is expected that more circuits will be energized in the coming hours, with a view to a potential complete reconnection of the SEN.
The entry of the Guiteras plant, considered one of the main facilities in the Cuban energy system, is crucial for alleviating the electricity crisis affecting the country. However, specialists warn that success will depend on the ability of the subsystems to maintain a balance between generation and consumption.
Previously, the Electric Union stated that the Guiteras plant did not sustain any damage after its disconnection from the system and that the unit was operating under stable conditions before the shutdown.
Additionally, no damage to the plant was detected, nor were there any reports of incidents involving the workers following the disconnection of the electrical system.
The nationwide blackout that affected Cuba early Wednesday morning not only worsened the already critical energy crisis of recent months but also led to a massive drop in Internet connectivity, causing significant unrest among the population.
The independent group Diktyon, which monitors the Internet situation on the Island, shared a chart on its Twitter account showing that at 2:08 AM, when the disconnection of the SEN occurred, there was a sharp drop in the volume of traffic in the country's cyberspace.
However, thanks to extraordinary measures and backup systems, the Minister of Transport, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, reported that transportation services remain operational.
Meanwhile, the ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed optimism following the recent electrical collapse that plunged the entire country into darkness on Wednesday; a positivity that has not been received well by a populace exhausted by the lack of solutions.
On his Twitter account, he stated that he is monitoring the restoration of the SEN and that the workers of the Unión Eléctrica are working tirelessly on the reconnection.
However, despite the "optimism" of the ruler, the regime suspended classes and non-essential work in Cuba due to the new widespread blackout that began early this morning.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba and the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant
Why is the Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant crucial for the Cuban energy system?
The Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant is a cornerstone of the Cuban energy system due to its generation capacity and its importance in mitigating power outages in a region with high electricity demand. Its continuous operation is vital for reducing interruptions in the electrical supply in Cuba.
What caused the recent collapse of the National Electric Power System (SEN) in Cuba?
The recent collapse of the National Electric System was due to the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant, the largest on the island, which caused a massive blackout. Inadequate maintenance and the structural deterioration of the plant were key factors in this incident.
How has this energy crisis affected the Cuban population?
The energy crisis has had a severe impact on the quality of life for the Cuban population, with blackouts lasting up to 20 hours a day. This has restricted access to basic services such as food, water, and healthcare, increasing social frustration and prompting protests in various regions of the country.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has promised to work tirelessly to resolve the crisis, but so far, the efforts have been ineffective. "Microsystems" are being implemented and purchases of fuels and supplies are underway, but the lack of a clear and effective strategy is evident, leaving the population with few visible improvements.
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