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As the year 2024 comes to a close, Cubans once again face blackouts, marking the end of the year much like it began: engulfed in one of the worst energy crises in the country's history.
The Electric Union of Cuba (UNE) forecasted a capacity of 2,110 MW for this Monday during the peak night hours, compared to a maximum demand of 3,150 MW.
If the current conditions persist, a deficit of 1,040 MW is anticipated, with an estimated impact of 1,110 MW.
At 7:00 a.m., the availability of the National Electric System (SEN) was 1,945 MW, against a demand of 2,000 MW, resulting in a shortfall of 109 MW, indicating a day of severe blackouts ahead.
Additionally, the UNE indicated that, during the midday hours, a decrease of 600 MW is expected, with a greater impact in the central-eastern region due to energy transfers.
He emphasized that during peak hours, the commissioning of Unit 5 at the Mariel Thermal Power Plant is expected, which will contribute 65 MW, along with the recovery of 100 MW from distributed generation plants.
Additionally, it was reported that on Sunday the service was affected starting at 6:18 a.m., reaching a peak of 1,182 MW at 6:10 p.m., which coincides with the hour of maximum demand.
Although the service was restored at 10:31 p.m., it resumed again on Monday morning at 6:36 a.m., with most of the outages reported in the central-eastern region.
Currently, Units 5 of the Nuevitas Thermal Power Plant, Unit 2 of the Felton Thermal Power Plant, and Unit 3 of the Renté Thermal Power Plant are experiencing failures.
Units 2 of the Santa Cruz Thermal Power Plant, units 3 and 4 of the Cienfuegos Thermal Power Plant, and unit 5 of the Renté Thermal Power Plant are currently undergoing maintenance.
The limitations in thermal generation amount to 293 MW.
Due to a lack of fuel, 51 distributed generation plants remain out of service, affecting 248 MW, along with four engines at the Patana de Regla, which account for 36 MW, and unit 5 of the CTE Mariel, representing 65 MW. In total, these issues result in a loss of 349 MW.
Amid growing public discontent that threatens stability in the country, the Cuban regime recently unveiled "its plan" to reduce blackouts and enhance the functionality of the National Electric System (SEN) by 2025, through the incorporation of new technologies and the promotion of renewable energy projects.
At a press conference, authorities announced that for the upcoming year, they expect to add 1,200 MW to the National Electric System, mostly from solar parks that will harness solar radiation.
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 is 1,040 MW, leading to prolonged blackouts that severely impact the population. Demand far exceeds the available generation capacity, resulting in increased power outages.
What factors contribute to power outages in Cuba?
Power outages in Cuba are primarily caused by the breakdown of several thermoelectric units and a lack of fuel for distributed generation plants. Additionally, insufficient maintenance and adverse weather conditions exacerbate the situation, leaving the country with inadequate capacity to meet electricity demand.
How do power outages affect daily life in Cuba?
Power outages significantly impact the daily life of Cubans, hindering essential activities such as food preparation and the use of appliances. The lack of electricity leads to frustration and social discontent, especially on the eve of important events like New Year's celebrations.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has announced a plan to reduce blackouts by 2025 through the incorporation of new technologies and the promotion of renewable energy projects, primarily through solar parks. However, to date, the measures have been insufficient to resolve the energy crisis in the short term.
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