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After a Sunday marked by the disconnection of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant from the National Electroenergetic System, Cubans begin the week facing new blackouts with a deficit of over 1,500 MW.
That day, the power service was affected for 24 hours and continued like that into the early hours of this Monday. The highest impact was 1,584 MW at 6:50 PM.
According to the report from Unión Eléctrica, this morning began with a current shortfall of 609 MW, which by noon is expected to rise to 980 MW.
The forecast for peak hours indicates a capacity of 1,825 MW and a demand of 3,300 MW, resulting in a projected deficit of 1,475 MW and a potential impact of 1,545 MW.
During peak demand hours, the entry of five engines in Regla (45 MW) and unit 5 of Nuevitas (70 MW) is expected.
The Guiteras thermoelectric plant successfully synchronized with the National Electric System on Sunday at 4:48 PM, after having gone offline in the morning due to a failure in the control supply at a nearby substation.
Experts explained that once operational, the plant would provide 250 MW, which would help reduce the acute deficit facing the country.
The incident exacerbated the crisis that Cubans have faced in recent days, during which the generation deficit exceeding 1,600 MW caused prolonged blackouts in several provinces, especially in the east.
The energy crisis has reached a critical point and has raised alarm among Cubans about the possibility of a new total collapse of the system.
Frequently Asked Questions about Blackouts and the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the main cause of blackouts in Cuba?
The main cause of blackouts in Cuba is the deficit in electricity generation due to the lack of maintenance in thermal power plants, fuel shortage, and unforeseen breakdowns. These conditions have led to a fragile and overloaded electrical system, unable to meet the country's energy demand.
What impact does the shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant have on the electricity supply?
The shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, one of the most important in the country, significantly exacerbates the electricity generation deficit in Cuba. The plant contributes 250 MW to the National Electric Power System (SEN), and its disconnection has increased the risk of widespread blackouts by further reducing the available generation capacity.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has implemented scheduled blackout measures and is working on the recovery of the affected plants. However, these actions have been insufficient to resolve the energy crisis, and the lack of investment in electrical infrastructure and alternative energy sources remains a critical problem.
How does the energy crisis affect daily life in Cuba?
The energy crisis severely affects the daily life of Cubans, causing prolonged blackouts that impact the operation of essential services such as hospitals, schools, and telecommunications. It also affects the country's economic and productive activities, increasing social unrest and uncertainty.
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