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Cuba's Electric Union (UNE) announced scheduled blackouts for this Wednesday due to a deficit of 1,570 MW. This already significant number could be even lower, as occurred on Tuesday, when the forecast indicated an impact of just over 1,100 MW, yet it reached 1,496 MW by 6:10 PM.
The reason, according to the UNE, was the failure to bring online unit 3 of the Rente thermoelectric plant and six engines in the Melones area, along with a demand that exceeded what was planned.
The service was affected by a generation capacity deficit from 5:15 AM until 2:03 AM this Wednesday. It began to be affected again at 5:06 AM.
At 7:00 AM, the availability of the National Electroenergetic System (SEN) was 1700 MW, while the demand was 2150 MW, resulting in a deficit of 438 MW. By noon, it is estimated that the deficit could reach 850 MW.
Two units from the Felton thermoelectric plant and one from Renté are out of service. An additional six blocks from the Mariel, Santa Cruz, Cienfuegos, Nuevitas, and Renté power plants are undergoing maintenance.
In addition, 60 distributed generation plants are out of service due to a lack of fuel, along with nine engines at the Melones site and another five engines at the Regla site, amounting to a total of 558 MW affected by this issue.
The limitations in thermal generation are 296 MW.
Frequently Asked Questions about Blackouts in Cuba
Why do blackouts occur in Cuba?
The blackouts in Cuba are primarily due to a deficit in electricity generation capacity caused by breakdowns and maintenance issues in several thermoelectric units, as well as a lack of fuel affecting distributed generation plants. These limitations hinder the ability to meet the country’s electricity demand, resulting in constant service interruptions.
What is the magnitude of the electric deficit in Cuba?
The electricity deficit in Cuba is significant. For this Wednesday, a deficit of 1,570 MW is forecasted, which has prompted the Electric Union to announce blackouts across the country. This deficit is a result of several generating units not coming online and the lack of fuel at distributed power plants.
How do power outages affect the daily lives of Cubans?
Blackouts severely impact daily life in Cuba, interrupting essential activities such as cooking and using household appliances. This situation generates frustration and discontent among the population, affecting both personal well-being and the country's economy.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the power outages?
The Cuban government has not implemented effective long-term solutions to address the energy crisis. Promises of improvement have not materialized, and the response has been inadequate, leaving the population in a state of uncertainty and growing discontent.
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