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Just five days before the end of 2024, the worst energy crisis in decades continues to plague Cuba, leaving citizens in the dark during many hours of the day.
The National Electroenergetic System (SEN) reported this Thursday on Facebook that, during peak hours, a capacity of 1,880 MW is expected against a maximum demand of 3,150 MW, which represents a deficit of 1,270 MW.
According to the statement, if these conditions persist, a reduction of up to 1,340 MW is expected during peak hours.
Additionally, the note specified that the impact will be focused in the central-eastern region, "due to high energy transfers to that area," she emphasized.
On the other hand, the daily report indicated that at 7:00 a.m., the availability of the National Electric System (SEN) was 1,880 MW, while the demand was 2,150 MW, resulting in a deficit of generation of 394 MW. This is a sign that Cubans are in for a long day of power outages.
"During the peak hours, a deficit impact of 850 MW is estimated," he specified.
According to the SEN, on Wednesday, the service was affected by a generation capacity deficit starting at 5:05 a.m.
The most significant impact was recorded at 6:10 p.m., coinciding with the peak demand hour, reaching a deficit of 1,307 MW.
At 1:40 a.m. this Thursday morning, the outage was temporarily restored; however, interruptions occurred again at 4:58 a.m. due to the ongoing inability to meet electrical demand.
Currently, Unit 2 of the Felton power plant and Unit 3 of the Renté power plant are out of service due to issues. Unit 2 of the Santa Cruz power plant, Units 3 and 4 of the Cienfuegos power plant, and Unit 5 of the Renté power plant are undergoing maintenance. These situations result in thermal generation limitations amounting to 321 MW.
Additionally, 72 distributed generation plants are out of service due to a lack of fuel, resulting in a loss of 430 MW. This is compounded by the Moa plant, which is affected by 127 MW, bringing the total unavailable capacity to 557 MW for this reason.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the current electricity generation deficit in Cuba?
The current electricity generation deficit in Cuba exceeds 1,300 MW, severely affecting the energy supply during peak hours. This is due to the inability to meet national demand, which far surpasses the available generation capacity.
What factors are contributing to power outages in Cuba?
Power outages in Cuba are primarily caused by the shutdown of several thermoelectric units due to breakdowns and maintenance, as well as by a lack of fuel affecting distributed generation plants. These limitations hinder the ability to adequately meet the country's electricity demand.
How are power outages affecting the Cuban population?
Power outages significantly affect the daily lives of Cubans, making essential activities such as food preparation and the use of appliances more challenging. Moreover, they lead to frustration and social discontent, especially in the lead-up to important events like the Christmas celebrations.
What is being done to resolve the energy crisis in Cuba?
So far, the measures implemented by the Cuban government have been insufficient to resolve the energy crisis. Effective long-term solutions have not been established, and the population continues to suffer the effects of blackouts, leading to increasing discontent and protests in various regions.
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