In another intervention filled with promises but lacking clear actions, Minister of Energy and Mines, Vicente de la O Levy, presented a so-called government plan for the recovery of the damaged national electric system on December 17. The aim is to provide a definitive and long-term solution to the energy crisis affecting the country.
“It is a plan to seek sustainable alternatives and solutions, which is why it is closely related to the energy transition. It concerns our ability to generate electricity, along with our means, resources, and capacities,” said the leader to those present at the Commission of Industry, Construction, and Energy, ahead of the Fourth Ordinary Session of the National Assembly of People's Power (ANPP).
According to Cubadebate, quoting the minister's words, the main objective is to "recover the National Electric System (SEN) as quickly as possible, achieving its accelerated growth and sustainability to meet the demands of the economy and the population, with a focus on energy transition and sovereignty, as well as the efficient and rational use of energy."
The proposal, therefore, focuses on recovering 850 MW of availability in distributed generation, combined with the generation from thermoelectric plants that consume domestic fuel, in order to achieve an average availability of 1,400 MW. This would still fall short based on the figures currently provided by Unión Eléctrica (UNE) in its daily report.
According to the minister, the aforementioned plan consists of six working groups, whose purpose is to seek financial, banking, and economic solutions, fuel supply, international relations in the sector, renewable energy sources, efficiency, and worker support. It seems like a promise that is far-fetched rather than a viable possibility.
Contradictions and Promises
De La O Levy emphasized that in Cuba there is "primarily fuel in thermal power plants, the crude oil generated from our wells, gas, and renewable energies, which not only includes photovoltaic solar energy but also the use of biomass from sugarcane and wind energy, as well as energy efficiency." This stands in stark contrast to the justifications currently provided, where the lack of fuels is cited as one of the reasons for the ongoing and daily blackouts experienced by Cuban families.
Additionally, the plan aims to rehabilitate the electrical networks, promote the energy transition, ensure a stable supply of fuel to meet the demand of eight million tons, and implement measures for the rational use of energy among consumers. It also seeks to instill confidence in the population regarding the gradual improvement of the national electricity system and the importance of energy conservation.
In the process, the minister emphasized that attention to workers in the electrical sector will be enhanced and the program for the recovery of emergency generators will be implemented. Regarding this goal, he highlighted the need to strengthen emergency power generation in hospitals and water pumping stations, especially following the experiences encountered with the most recent hurricanes and the earthquakes in eastern Cuba.
Among the maintenance actions, it was reported that unit 2 of the Felton thermal power plant, which was affected by a fire, is currently undergoing repairs. The disassembly of the boiler has been completed, and progress is being made with the import of metals and the construction of necessary structures and beams.
Furthermore, efforts have begun to secure the supplies necessary for the maintenance of units 3 and 4 of the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes power plant.
Photovoltaic Systems and Controversial Measures
Regarding renewable energy, the minister announced that the country has 280 MW installed in photovoltaic solar parks, a significant portion of which is financed by foreign investment. Payment alternatives have been implemented for foreign investors using profits generated by exporting companies within the organization.
He stated that looking to the future, a project will be implemented to install an additional 120 MW in photovoltaic solar parks, thanks to a donation from China. The first 35 MW are expected to arrive in early 2025, followed by the remaining 85 MW.
The Cuban government official noted that the Herradura 1 wind farm, which had been interrupted due to a lack of funding, is also in the process of being revived. According to their statements, payments have been made, and there is a timeline in place for its execution, with a projected completion date set for 2025.
He also specified that the acquisition of 30,000 residential photovoltaic systems was arranged, and 10,500 batteries for solar photovoltaic systems are already being distributed across several provinces.
The minister also mentioned the criticized Decree 110 of 2024, which he claims regulates the control and efficient use of energy carriers and renewable energy sources. However, the measure is perceived by the population as yet another blow to their already precarious quality of life.
The electricity crisis in Cuba has deepened in recent years due to a lack of investment, fuel shortages, and the outdated infrastructure of the energy system. Power outages, which in some cases last up to 12 hours a day, have caused social unrest and difficulties in key sectors such as the economy and health.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the objective of the new energy plan of the Cuban government?
The main objective of the Cuban government's plan is to restore the National Electric System (SEN) as quickly as possible, achieving accelerated growth and sustainability to meet the demands of the economy and the population, with a focus on energy transition and sovereignty.
What are the main measures of the plan to address power outages in Cuba?
The plan includes the recovery of 850 MW of availability in distributed generation, generation in thermoelectric plants that use domestic fuel, and the implementation of renewable energies such as solar and wind. Additionally, it aims to rehabilitate the electrical grids and ensure a stable fuel supply.
How does the lack of fuel affect the energy crisis in Cuba?
The lack of fuel has rendered numerous distributed generation plants out of service, significantly impacting the responsiveness of the National Electroenergetic System (SEN). This shortage contributes to the generation deficit and the widespread blackouts experienced by the country.
Why have the Cuban government's promises to end blackouts not been fulfilled?
The promises of the Cuban government have not been fulfilled due to a lack of investment, fuel shortages, and the outdated infrastructure of the electrical system. Although plans and maintenance efforts have been announced, the results have been insufficient to resolve the energy crisis.
Filed under:
