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Power outages in Cuba continue to severely impact the daily lives of the population. On January 4th, the peak affected load was 767 MW at 6:20 PM, coinciding with the time of highest demand.
The updated figures from the National Electric System (SEN) indicate that this issue is far from being resolved. By January 5, a maximum impact of up to 693 MW is anticipated.
This electricity deficit reflects the deep shortcomings in Cuba's energy infrastructure, characterized by recurring failures and an alarming lack of fuel.
Recent impacts and forecasts for January 5
On January 4th, supply cuts were recorded at two key times: from 7:32 a.m. to 2:10 p.m., and again from 2:30 p.m. to 8:52 p.m. The most significant impact occurred primarily in the central-eastern region of the country.
By January 5, forecasts are also not promising. According to official data, the availability of the National Electric System (SEN) will be 2,127 MW, while the estimated maximum demand is 2,700 MW, resulting in a deficit of 623 MW.
This deficit will lead to power outages of up to 693 MW during peak nighttime hours, a situation that will primarily affect the central and eastern parts of the island.
A System in Crisis: Causes of the Energy Collapse
The situation of the SEN is exacerbated by the combination of several factors:
- Breakdowns in key units: The thermoelectric plants (CTEs) Nuevitas, Renté, and Felton have units out of service, while others, such as those in Santa Cruz and Cienfuegos, are undergoing prolonged maintenance. These breakdowns represent a significant loss of generation capacity.
- Thermal generation limitations: The SEN reports constraints of 263 MW due to wear and inadequate maintenance.
- Fuel Shortage: The 58 distributed generation plants out of service due to a lack of fuel represent a loss of an additional 260 MW. Although recovery of 50 MW in these units is anticipated, the overall impact remains concerning.
Impact on the population and the economy
The impact of power outages goes beyond the technical aspects, directly affecting the quality of life for Cubans. Families face long hours without electricity, making it impossible to carry out basic activities such as cooking, refrigerating food, or maintaining lighting in their homes.
Additionally, the interruptions impact essential sectors of the economy, such as industry, commerce, and public services.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the current deficit in electricity generation in Cuba?
The current electricity generation deficit in Cuba exceeds 700 MW, and it is expected to continue impacting the country due to the system's inability to meet electricity demand. This situation arises from chronic issues in the National Electric System (SEN), such as breakdowns and a lack of fuel.
What are the main causes of power outages in Cuba?
Blackouts in Cuba are primarily due to failures in thermal power plants and a lack of fuel affecting distributed generation facilities. The country's energy infrastructure is deteriorating, and issues with maintenance and management are exacerbating the situation.
How do power outages affect the daily lives of Cubans?
Power outages severely impact the daily lives of Cubans, hindering basic activities such as cooking, refrigerating food, and maintaining lighting in their homes. Furthermore, they affect the economy and essential services, creating frustration and discontent among the population.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
So far, the measures taken by the Cuban government have not been sufficient to resolve the energy crisis. Effective long-term solutions have not been established, and the actions implemented, such as the repair of certain units, have not succeeded in stabilizing the electricity supply in the country.
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