The Electric Company of Santiago de Cuba reported on Wednesday afternoon that the generation microsystem established in the province, following the massive blackout that began in the early morning due to the disconnection of the Antonio Guiteras power station, had to be dismantled due to issues with frequency instability.
This outage has once again left the residents of Santiago without electricity amid the complex energy situation the country is facing, the entity reported on its official Facebook profile.
The statement clarified that the technical teams are working to stabilize the system and restore electrical service as soon as possible; however, no estimated timeframe was provided for the recovery of the microsystem.
The widespread blackout that has affected Cuba since early Wednesday has triggered a series of events that have put the National Electric System (SEN) in jeopardy, forcing provinces to rely on isolated microsystems to ensure, at the very least, basic services.
Santiago de Cuba had managed to consolidate one of these microsystems, but its destabilization has further complicated the energy situation in the region.
The people of Santiago are facing another episode of uncertainty and difficulties, as the authorities attempt to restore balance in an electrical system that continues to demonstrate its fragility.
Around 4:00 p.m., the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric power plant in Matanzas began its startup process with the aim of generating electricity starting at 8:00 p.m., after resolving a technical issue in the automatic control system of a valve.
According to engineer Román Pérez Castañeda, technical deputy director of the largest unit block on the Island, the success of this process will depend on the stability of the electrical subsystem supplying the plant, reported journalist José Miguel Solís on Facebook.
Previously, the Electric Union stated that the Guiteras power plant did not suffer any damage following its disconnection from the grid and that the unit was operating under stable conditions before the shutdown.
Additionally, no damage was detected at the plant, nor were there any incidents reported involving the workers following the disconnection of the electrical system.
The widespread blackout that struck Cuba early Wednesday not only intensified the severe energy crisis the country has been experiencing in recent months, but also caused a massive disruption in Internet connectivity, leading to significant discontent among the population.
The ruling Miguel Díaz-Canel, despite the electrical collapse that plunged the country into darkness this Wednesday, expressed optimism on Twitter, highlighting the tireless work of the Electric Union to restore the National Electric System (SEN), a stance that has generated discontent among a population weary of the lack of solutions.
However, despite the ruler's "optimism," 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 Blackout in Santiago de Cuba
Why did Santiago de Cuba lose power again?
Santiago de Cuba lost electricity due to the destabilization of the generation microsystem that had been established in the province following the massive blackout caused by the disconnection of the Antonio Guiteras power plant. The frequency instability forced the dismantling of this system, leaving the population without electric service.
What is the cause of the collapse of the National Electric System (SEN) in Cuba?
The collapse of the National Electric System in Cuba was triggered by the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant, the largest in the country. Inadequate maintenance and the structural deterioration of the plant have been critical factors contributing to these ongoing failures.
What impact does the energy crisis have on the daily lives of Cubans?
The energy crisis in Cuba has severely affected the quality of life for the population. Prolonged blackouts limit access to essential services such as food, water, and healthcare, leading to increased social discontent and protests in various regions of the country.
What actions is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has indicated that it is working to restore the National Electric System (SEN) through the implementation of "microsystems" and the purchase of fuels and supplies. However, so far, the solutions have been insufficient and have not effectively stabilized the electricity supply.
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