Related videos:
The Electric Union of Cuba (UNE) reported on the situation of the National Electric System (SEN) for January 10, 2025, indicating a day marked by new disruptions in the electric service, especially in the central-eastern region of the country.
On Thursday, the electric service was disrupted from 07:06 in the morning until 20:59 in the evening, reaching a maximum impact of 857 MW at 18:10, although this did not coincide with the peak demand hour.
This Friday, interruptions began at 6:44 AM due to high power transfers to the central-eastern area.
At 07:00 hours, the availability of the national electricity system (SEN) was 2045 MW, compared to a demand of 1800 MW, which already resulted in 70 MW affected. It is expected that by midday, the outages will increase to 300 MW, once again concentrating in the central-eastern region.
On Thursday a recovery had been forecasted, but the disruptions increased again at the start of the weekend.
Generation limited by breakdowns and maintenance
The energy situation in Cuba is complicated by the outage of several generating units. The following units are currently down:
- Unit 5 of the CTE Nuevitas
- Units 3 and 6 of the CTE Renté
- Unit 2 of the CTE Felton
Units 2 and 3 of the Santa Cruz Thermoelectric Plant, units 3 and 4 of the Cienfuegos Thermoelectric Plant, and unit 5 of the Renté Thermoelectric Plant are currently undergoing maintenance. Additionally, there are limitations in thermal generation of 214 MW and a lack of fuel at 41 distributed generation plants, impacting an additional capacity of 244 MW.
Forecast for peak hour
During peak hours, the UNE anticipates the operation of Unit 5 of the Nuevitas Power Generation Plant and Unit 6 of the Renté Power Generation Plant, which would contribute 70 MW and 50 MW respectively, raising the availability to 2165 MW.
However, with an estimated demand of 2900 MW, a deficit of 735 MW is projected, resulting in a forecasted impact of 805 MW.
This deficit continues to impact the quality of life for Cubans and highlights the difficulties within the national energy system, with forecasts of significant blackouts by the end of the day.
Frequently asked questions about blackouts in Cuba
Why are there blackouts in Cuba?
Power outages in Cuba are caused by the shutdown of several thermoelectric units due to breakdowns and maintenance, as well as by the lack of fuel affecting distributed generation plants. These limitations prevent the adequate coverage of the country's electricity demand.
What is the impact of blackouts on the daily lives of Cubans?
Blackouts severely impact the daily life of Cubans, making essential activities such as cooking and using household appliances difficult. Furthermore, they generate frustration and social discontent, affecting the economy and the overall well-being of Cuban society.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
Until now, 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.
What is the forecast for blackouts in Cuba for the coming days?
For January 10, 2025, a deficit of 735 MW is projected, resulting in a forecasted impact of 805 MW, especially in the central-eastern zone of the country. This situation reflects the challenges facing the national energy system, with significant blackout forecasts expected by the end of the day.
Filed under: