Related videos:
The Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant (CTE) in Matanzas remains stable and has been supplying 250 megawatts (MW) to the National Electric Power System (SEN) since this morning, after reducing its load on Sunday for maintenance work.
The director of the UEB Production of the CTE, Jorge Gómez Chávez, explained -in statements collected by Periódico Girón- that the reduction in load was necessary due to the detection of a puncture in the boiler and a red flag in the right lateral area, concerning the site affected by the last breakdown.
"Metals become red-hot due to the incidence of extreme heat, which in this case was caused by a leak of very hot gases", detailed the executive.
To solve the problem, external repairs were carried out, which necessitated reducing the load to 120 MW in order to decrease the flame intensity and allow access to the affected area.
In the intervened area, box-shaped plates were installed and refractory cement was applied to seal the leak and prevent further damage.
After completing the repair, the CTE gradually increased its generation, operating throughout the night at 220 MW without any new issues.
Finally, this morning, it reached 250 MW, consolidating its stability in the system.
However, for the moment, the return of the Guiteras thermoelectric plant to the national electricity system has not become very evident to the citizens.
In its daily power outage forecast, the Electric Union (UNE) reported interruptions of approximately 1,525 MW for this Monday during the nighttime hours, a number higher than the 1,362 MW of disruptions recorded this Sunday.
The exit of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant from the National Electric System shortly after seven o'clock on Monday evening—just 24 hours after returning to the SEN following another breakdown—was the trigger for a crisis that had already been looming due to constant failures and the lack of fuel.
It is important to consider that this is the largest and most significant thermoelectric plant in the country. Its disconnection from the system in October and December of 2024 caused massive blackouts that plunged the Cuban people into complete darkness.
After several unsuccessful attempts, Guiteras finally synced with the SEN this Saturday, but soon encountered problems again, as described by Periódico Girón.
The energy crisis has generated increasing discontent among the population, who are raising concerns about the instability of the electricity supply and its impact on daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Antonio Guiteras Power Plant and the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the current status of the Antonio Guiteras power plant?
The Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant is operational and is contributing 250 MW to the National Electroenergetic System (SEN) after completing maintenance work. However, its operation is unstable due to recurring breakdowns and structural issues.
Why do blackouts occur in Cuba despite the operation of Guiteras?
Power outages in Cuba persist due to the instability of Guiteras, which is facing continuous breakdowns, and the lack of capacity from other plants to cover the energy deficit. The lack of fuel and the outdated condition of the national electrical system also contribute to this situation.
How does the situation at the Guiteras thermoelectric plant affect the Cuban population?
The instability of the Guiteras thermoelectric plant causes prolonged blackouts that negatively affect the daily lives of Cubans. The lack of a reliable electricity supply creates discomfort among the population, who must face constant service interruptions.
What are the causes of the frequent breakdowns at Guiteras?
The frequent breakdowns at Guiteras are due to structural issues in its boiler, such as leaks and recurring mechanical failures. Moreover, the wear on its equipment and the lack of spare parts worsen the situation, reflecting the obsolescence of the national electrical system.
Filed under:
