Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant faces challenges after synchronization to the National Electric System

As a preventive measure, the unit will be maintained at 225 MW while a reinspection is conducted in the morning to determine if it is possible to increase the power output.

Girón NewspaperPhoto © Works at the CTE Antonio Guiteras

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Just 48 hours after its synchronization to the National Electric System (SEN), the Antonio Guiteras power plant has had to reduce its output due to new issues in the boiler.

On the social network Facebook, journalist José Miguel Solís reported that the plant had reached 250 MW on Saturday night, but this Sunday it had to reduce its generation.

Facebook Post/José Miguel Solís

According to engineer Jorge Gómez Sánchez, deputy production director of the plant, a critical issue in the boiler has been resolved, a complex and risky process that requires great expertise.

As a preventive measure, the unit will be maintained at 225 MW while a reinspection is conducted in the morning to determine if it is possible to increase the output.

The ongoing issues at Guiteras, one of the main sources of electricity generation in Cuba, reflect the fragility of the national energy system and the urgent need for structural solutions.

This occurs on a day when the electrical service began to be affected at 6:36 am, and a peak impact of 1372 MW is forecasted, according to the Electric Union (UNE).

In addition to the limitation of the Guiteras, six other blocks are out of service due to breakdowns or maintenance. Meanwhile, 56 generation plants are out of service due to a lack of fuel, affecting 350 MW.

La Guiteras synchronized with the SEN on Friday at 9:06 AM, after several days of repairs and testing, following its disconnection on Sunday, February 4.

The conflicting statements from the authorities regarding the reasons for the service outage and the status of the repairs have generated distrust and concern among the public.

Initially, UNE reported that the Guiteras had gone out of service without an identified cause, and later modified its statement, indicating that the reason was "failures in the power supply from a nearby substation."

Meanwhile, the population continues to endure long blackouts and listening to forecasts of recovery that only reinforce the perception of erratic and opaque management.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Antonio Guiteras Power Plant and the Energy Crisis in Cuba

Why has the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant had to limit its capacity again?

The Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant has restricted its power output due to new issues with the boiler. This reflects the structural problems of the facility, which has faced repeated failures and maintenance in recent months. The situation highlights the fragility of the Cuban electrical system, worsened by a lack of fuel and the obsolescence of its infrastructure.

What is the impact of the constant failures of the Guiteras on the Cuban electrical system?

The constant failures of the Guiteras have contributed to prolonged blackouts and a significant energy deficit in Cuba. This is because the plant is one of the main sources of electricity generation in the country. The recurring breakdowns have highlighted the urgent need for structural solutions and more transparent and efficient management in the energy sector.

How has the energy situation affected the Cuban population?

The Cuban population has experienced prolonged and frequent blackouts due to the energy crisis. This has generated discontent and distrust in the authorities, who have issued contradictory reports regarding the state of the electrical system and the causes of the failures. The lack of transparency and effective solutions has exacerbated the perception of erratic management.

What measures are being taken to address the issues at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant?

Repairs and maintenance have been carried out to address the malfunctions at the Guiteras, such as the gas leak in the boiler. However, these efforts have been insufficient to ensure its long-term operability. The situation requires significant investments and a structural approach to address the inherent weaknesses of the Cuban electrical system.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.