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The Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant, located in Matanzas, was out of service for several hours this Monday due to an automatic tripping that occurred shortly after 10 a.m.
According to information from the official journalist José Miguel Solís via Facebook, this incident was caused by an increase in the electric deficit during peak demand hours.
The Doctor of Science Román Pérez Castañeda, technical deputy director of the plant, explained that the incident occurred during maintenance and adjustment work on a valve. As part of the safety protocol, the automatic protection system activated to prevent potential further damage.
Hours after the incident, the thermoelectric plant rejoined the National Electric System (SEN), initially delivering a power output of 200 MW.
Pérez Castañeda indicated that, after stabilizing the operational parameters, it is expected to continue increasing electricity generation.
"La Guiteras, following the brief maintenance a few days ago, could reach a generation capacity of up to 270 MW," clarified journalist Solís.
The next stop for maintenance work is scheduled for mid-May, they indicated.
Recently, on Saturday, January 18, 2025, the plant was disconnected from the SEN at 9:59 a.m. due to a malfunction in the control valves of its boiler, after 45 days of continuous operation.
After four days of repair work, the plant successfully synchronized with the SEN again on Wednesday, January 22 at 7:44 a.m., with an initial power output of 200 MW and the expectation of reaching up to 270 MW once the operational parameters stabilize.
The electricity situation in Cuba has faced an unprecedented crisis in recent months, characterized by prolonged blackouts and the collapse of the National Electric System.
One of the most critical events occurred in October 2024, when a malfunction at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant led to a total disconnection of the system, leaving more than ten million people without electricity.
This collapse highlighted the vulnerability of the Cuban electrical infrastructure, characterized by outdated generation plants and a significant reliance on fossil fuels.
Despite the government's commitments to increase the share of renewable energy to 37% by 2030, only 5% had been achieved by 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant and its impact on the Cuban electrical system
Why has the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant been disconnected again from the National Electric Power System?
The Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant was disconnected from the National Electroenergetic System (SEN) due to a technical issue related to the fuel preparation station. This adjustment is part of the efforts to stabilize the plant and ensure its sustained operation.
What impact does the departure of the CTE Antonio Guiteras have on Cuba's electricity supply?
The exit of the CTE Antonio Guiteras from the SEN significantly worsens the country's energy situation, increasing blackouts. The thermoelectric plant is essential to mitigate blackouts, but its inability to operate continuously highlights the deficiencies in Cuba's energy infrastructure.
What have been the most common technical difficulties faced by the CTE Antonio Guiteras in recent months?
The CTE Antonio Guiteras has faced several technical difficulties, such as gas leaks, issues with the oil system controlling the turbine valves, and severe fouling on the heat exchange surfaces. These problems have resulted in frequent and prolonged shutdowns of the plant. These incidents highlight the lack of proper maintenance and the obsolescence of its infrastructure.
What measures are being taken to improve the energy situation in Cuba?
The Cuban government has implemented a prolonged maintenance strategy at thermal power plants to try to ensure electrical service. Additionally, new photovoltaic parks are being installed to increase energy availability. Despite these efforts, authorities acknowledge that blackouts will continue until 2025 due to the current limitations of the system.
What are the expectations for the future operation of the CTE Antonio Guiteras?
The expectations for the future operation of the CTE Antonio Guiteras are focused on achieving stable synchronization with the SEN and overcoming current technical issues. However, the plant continues to operate at the limits of its capacities and faces significant challenges due to its outdated infrastructure and the lack of adequate resources for its maintenance.
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