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The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) reported this Tuesday on the critical situation of the National Electric System (SEN), which has led to significant disruptions in the electricity service over the past 24 hours.
The official statement indicates that on Monday, January 20, there was an impact on the electricity service throughout the day, with a maximum interruption of 1,708 MW at 6:20 PM, coinciding with the time of highest demand.
This deficit was close to the record of 1,750 MW set last year, and it is now attributed to the fact that unit 5 of the Mariel Thermoelectric Power Plant (CTE) did not become operational as scheduled, before peak hours.
SEN status for this Tuesday
The availability of the SEN at 7:00 AM is 1,560 MW, compared to a demand of 2,285 MW, resulting in a deficit of 783 MW and significant impacts.
At noon, UNE estimates an interruption of up to 1,200 MW due to insufficient generation capacity, but this could increase in the evening.
Affected generation units and maintenance
Currently, the following units are out of service due to breakdowns or maintenance:
Under repair:
- Unit 8 of the CTE Mariel.
- Unit 6 of the CTE Nuevitas.
- Unit 3 of the CTE Renté.
- Unit 2 of the CTE Felton.
Under maintenance:
- Unit 2 of CTE Santa Cruz.
- Unit of the CTE Guiteras.
- Units 3 and 4 of the CTE Cienfuegos.
- Unit 5 of CTE Renté.
Additionally, the limitations in thermal generation reach 255 MW, and 49 distributed generation plants are out of service due to lack of fuel, which amounts to a reduction of 285 MW in capacity.
Forecast for the nighttime peak
During peak hours on January 21, it is estimated that the conditions of the National Electric System (SEN) will remain critical. Although the start-up of Unit 3 of the Renté Power Plant (60 MW) and Unit 6 of the Nuevitas Power Plant (100 MW) is expected, the total availability would only reach 1,720 MW against a maximum demand of 3,250 MW.
This would result in a deficit of 1,530 MW and an estimated impact of 1,600 MW at that time, if everything goes as planned, which is quite complicated in the current Cuban context.
The impact of power outages continues to be a challenge for Cubans, who are facing serious difficulties due to the ongoing energy shortage in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about Blackouts in Cuba
Why do blackouts occur in Cuba?
Power outages in Cuba are caused by a deficit in electricity generation due to the shutdown of several thermal units due to breakdowns and maintenance, as well as the lack of fuel affecting distributed generation plants.
What is the impact of blackouts on the daily lives of Cubans?
Blackouts severely affect the daily lives of Cubans, causing interruptions in essential activities such as cooking, using appliances, and preserving products, which leads to frustration and discontent among the population.
What solutions has the Cuban government proposed for the energy crisis?
Until now, the Cuban government has not implemented effective long-term solutions to resolve the energy crisis. The measures taken have not significantly improved the situation, leading to increasing social discontent due to the lack of structural solutions.
What is the current situation of the National Electric System in Cuba?
Currently, the National Electric System in Cuba is facing a critical situation with a significant generation deficit that has resulted in widespread blackouts, affecting both the population and the industry, with no clear prospects for improvement in the short term.
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