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The crisis in Cuba worsens with a deficit in power generation of 1,600 megawatts (MW), resulting in prolonged blackouts across the island.
The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) reported in its official statement this Friday that power outages continue to affect the population throughout the day, and the situation is expected to worsen during peak hours.
The maximum impact on the electricity service in the previous day reached 1,615 MW at 7:10 PM, coinciding with the peak demand period. This figure exceeded expectations due to the non-operation of the Moa engines.
At 07:00 hours this Friday, the availability of the National Electric System (SEN) was only 1,600 MW, against a demand of 2,310 MW, causing an impact of 726 MW. It is estimated that during the midday hours, the impact could reach 950 MW, with a higher incidence in the central-eastern region of the country.
Main causes of the electricity deficit
Among the main causes of the deficit are the breakdowns in units 1 and 2 of the Felton Thermal Power Plant (CTE), as well as the scheduled maintenance on unit 2 of the Santa Cruz CTE, units 3 and 4 of the Cienfuegos CTE, and unit 5 of the Renté CTE.
Furthermore, the limitations in thermal generation account for 438 MW less, while the lack of fuel keeps 77 distributed generation plants out of service, affecting another 418 MW.
Forecast for peak hours this Friday
The UNE expects that during peak hours, four fuel engines will be added in Moa, contributing 56 MW, along with the recovery of 100 MW in distributed generation.
However, the estimated total availability at that time is 1,756 MW compared to a projected demand of 3,250 MW, which will result in a deficit of 1,494 MW and an impact of up to 1,564 MW, again with a greater effect in the central-eastern region.
Scheduled blackouts in Havana
In Havana, the Electric Company announced scheduled outages for this Friday. Blocks 1 and 2 will be affected from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by block 4 until 5:00 p.m., and block 3 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The authorities indicated that the official social media accounts and the number 18888 are available to provide information and address the concerns of the public.
The prolongation of blackouts affects not only the daily lives of Cubans but also the economic activity and basic services, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and despair on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the current deficit in electricity generation in Cuba?
The electric generation deficit in Cuba is 1,600 MW, which is causing prolonged blackouts across the country. This figure reflects the difference between the available generation capacity and the estimated demand, which far exceeds the current capacity of the Cuban electrical system.
What are the main causes of the energy deficit in Cuba?
The main causes of the energy deficit in Cuba are breakdowns in generation units, scheduled maintenance in key plants, and a severe fuel shortage that has taken numerous distributed generation plants out of service. These situations prevent the National Electric System (SEN) from meeting the electricity demand of the population.
How are power outages affecting the daily lives of Cubans?
Blackouts are seriously affecting the daily lives of Cubans, causing interruptions in essential activities such as food preparation and the use of appliances. This situation creates an atmosphere of uncertainty and social unrest, as it impacts not only everyday life but also economic activities and basic services.
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