In an unprecedented journey, the YouTuber known as "El Matancero Errante" has documented in video the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, the largest electricity generator in Cuba.
With camera in hand and under risky conditions, he showcased like never before the state of the plant and its industrial surroundings in the city of Matanzas.
The video, published on February 6, focuses on the impact that the thermoelectric plant has on the national electrical system and how its outage has left much of the country in complete darkness.
According to the content creator, in their province, they have gone 72 hours without electricity, with only two or three hours of supply during the early morning. This blackout has affected various provinces, while Havana and tourist spots like Varadero have been prioritized in energy distribution.
During his tour, the YouTuber explained the crucial role of Guiteras in the island's electrical grid, highlighting that when this plant fails, the system collapses due to a generation deficit.
It also showed images of the nearby industrial structures, such as the old rayon factory in Matanzas, the José Martí thermoelectric plant (now out of service), and the area of the supertankers, where the tragic fire in 2022 occurred.
The video, which reveals never-before-seen images of the plant from various angles, included an incursion to the coast, where the YouTuber managed to capture the cooling channel of the facility, a rarely seen and high-risk area.
Additionally, he reflected on the energy crisis in Cuba and the deterioration of the electrical system, noting that the Guiteras thermoelectric plant, built in 1988, has surpassed 37 years of operation without significant investments for its modernization.
La Guiteras, as it is popularly known, has experienced constant breakdowns due to lack of maintenance and equipment obsolescence. The plant has suffered repeated interruptions, contributing to the energy crisis affecting the island.
The material has generated great interest among Cubans, both on and off the island, who recognize the importance of this infrastructure for the country. Furthermore, it has sparked debate about the lack of transparency in official information regarding the electrical system and the energy crisis that affects the population.
With this unprecedented journey, "The Wandering Matancero" not only documented the condition of the Guiteras thermoelectric plant, but also highlighted the challenges faced by the Cuban people amid ongoing blackouts and a crisis in the energy system.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Antonio Guiteras Power Plant and the Energy Crisis in Cuba
Why is the Guiteras thermoelectric plant crucial for Cuba's electrical system?
The Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant is crucial for Cuba's electrical system because it is the largest electricity generator in the country, and its stable operation is essential to mitigate power outages. When the Guiteras fails, the electrical system can collapse due to the generation deficit that its shutdown causes. The plant significantly contributes to the energy supply, and its poor condition and lack of maintenance have exacerbated the energy crisis on the island.
What is the impact of the breakdowns at the Guiteras thermoelectric plant on the Cuban population?
Breakdowns at the Guiteras thermoelectric plant have a severe impact on the Cuban population, as they cause prolonged blackouts that affect daily life and economic activity. Entire provinces experience power outages of up to 20 hours a day, exacerbating food shortages and the lack of gas for cooking, turning the situation into a real torment for the citizens.
Why does the Guiteras thermoelectric plant experience constant breakdowns?
The Guiteras thermoelectric plant suffers from constant breakdowns due to its age, lack of maintenance, and obsolescence of its equipment. Built in 1988, it has operated for more than 37 years without significant investments for its modernization. These recurring technical problems reflect the fragility of the Cuban electrical system and its dependence on aging infrastructure.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government is trying to mitigate the energy crisis by maintaining existing plants and dividing the electrical system into independent subsystems by region. However, the lack of transparency and unmet promises have generated distrust among the population. The lack of investment in modern infrastructure and the focus on projects that do not prioritize improving the electrical system have prolonged the crisis.
How has the Cuban population reacted to the energy crisis and the role of the Guiteras thermoelectric plant?
The Cuban population has reacted with outrage and skepticism in response to the energy crisis and the role of the Guiteras thermoelectric plant. Citizens express their frustration over the lack of concrete solutions and perceive favoritism towards Havana in the distribution of electricity. The constant improvisation and the history of unfulfilled promises have generated widespread disillusionment among Cubans.
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