Blackouts provide no relief in Cuba: Energy deficit reaches 1,480 MW this Sunday

The failures in thermoelectric plants add to the fuel shortage affecting 44 power stations and the Mariel fuel plant.

Radio and lantern in Cuba (Reference image)Photo © CiberCuba

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Cuba's Electric Union (UNE) reported that this Sunday, the generation deficit continues, announcing an estimated impact of 1,480 MW.

That forecast could fall short, as happened on Saturday, when a maximum impact of 1405 MW was predicted but reached 1,735 MW at 6:40 PM, coinciding with peak demand time.

According to the report from the UNE, yesterday the electricity service began to be affected at 4:14 AM and was restored at 4:08 AM today.

Exactly one hour later, it started to affect again. At 7:00 AM, the deficit was 600 MW, and by noon, the forecast had reached 900 MW.

Facebook Capture / Electric Union UNE

In addition to the generation issues, four units from the thermoelectric plants Santa Cruz, Renté, and Felton are out of service. Another four blocks from the thermoelectric plants Santa Cruz, Cienfuegos, and Renté are undergoing maintenance.

Thermal limitations have caused 290 MW to be offline.

On the other hand, the lack of fuel has left 44 distributed generation plants and the Mariel fuel power plant out of operation, resulting in a total of 382 MW affected by this issue.

During peak hours, a supply of 1,840 MW is projected against a demand of 3,250 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,410 MW and an estimated impact of 1,480 MW.

Frequently Asked Questions about Blackouts in Cuba and the Energy Deficit

What is the current electricity generation deficit in Cuba?

The electricity generation deficit in Cuba for this Sunday is approximately 1,480 MW. This deficit reflects a critical situation in the country's electricity supply, exacerbated by breakdowns and maintenance in several thermoelectric units, as well as a lack of fuel.

Which thermoelectric units are currently affected in Cuba?

Currently, four units of the thermal power plants Santa Cruz, Renté, and Felton are out of service. Additionally, several blocks of the power plants Santa Cruz, Cienfuegos, and Renté are undergoing maintenance, which contributes to the energy deficit and prolonged blackouts in the country.

How does the lack of fuel affect electricity generation in Cuba?

The shortage of fuel has caused 44 distributed generation plants and the Mariel fuel plant to be out of operation, resulting in a total loss of 382 MW. This fuel scarcity is a significant factor contributing to blackouts and the energy deficit on the island.

What is the forecast for electricity demand and availability in Cuba during peak hours?

For peak hours, a availability of 1,840 MW is projected against a demand of 3,250 MW. This will result in a deficit of 1,410 MW, leading to an estimated impact of 1,480 MW, further worsening the situation of blackouts in the country.

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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.