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The energy crisis in Cuba continues with no improvements, marked by widespread blackouts across the country due to a generation deficit in the National Electric System (SEN).
For this Friday, a power shortfall of up to 1,390 MW is expected during peak hours, according to the official report from the Electric Union of Cuba (UNE).
On Thursday, the service was affected 24 hours a day, with a maximum impact of 1,624 MW at 6:30 PM, a figure higher than planned. UNE did not meet its forecast of 1,344 MW due to the unexpected outage of unit 1 of the Santa Cruz CTE and the lack of entry of the Moa engines.
This Friday at 7:00 am, the availability of the SEN was 1,580 MW, while demand reached 2,185 MW, resulting in a deficit of 672 MW. By noon, it is estimated that the outages could rise to 1,050 MW.
The electrical system continues to face serious problems with its infrastructure, with several units out of service or under maintenance.
There are two units out of service due to malfunctions: unit 5 from the Nuevitas CTE and unit 2 from the Felton CTE.
Blocks 6 of the Mariel Power Plant, 2 of the Santa Cruz Power Plant, and 3 and 4 of the Cienfuegos Power Plant, as well as block 5 of the Renté Power Plant, are under maintenance.
The limitations in thermal generation are 403 MW.
In addition, 83 distributed generation plants, seven engines from the Patana de Melones, and the fuel plant in Moa are out of service due to a lack of fuel, representing a total of 782 MW.
Forecast for the nighttime peak hours
By tonight, a recovery of 80 MW is expected from distributed generation engines, along with the activation of seven engines in the Melones Patana and 10 engines at the Moa fuel plant, which would contribute an additional 147 MW.
Despite these efforts, UNE's forecast for peak hours indicates a capacity of 1,930 MW against a demand of 3,250 MW. This results in a deficit of 1,320 MW, with blackouts estimated to reach up to 1,390 MW.
Scheduled power outages in Havana
The Electric Company of Havana reported that, due to a generation deficit, scheduled blackouts will be implemented in the capital
From 10:00 am to 3:00 pm: Blocks #1 and #2.
From 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM: Block #3.
From 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM: Block #4.
A landscape without immediate solutions
Although the UNE reported a slight reduction in the severity of the blackouts on Thursday, the significant deficiencies in the system undermined the experts' predictions. For this Friday, the forecast of an impact of 1,390 MW is likely to fall short.
The generation deficit, exacerbated by lack of maintenance, breakdowns, and fuel shortages, keeps the population in prolonged blackouts with no clear short-term solution.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the current situation with blackouts in Cuba?
The energy situation in Cuba is critical, with blackouts affecting the population due to a deficit in electricity generation. Blackouts of up to 1,390 MW are expected during peak hours, leading to constant interruptions that impact daily life, generating frustration and discontent among citizens.
What are the main causes of power outages in Cuba?
The blackouts in Cuba are due to the shutdown of several thermoelectric units because of breakdowns and maintenance. Additionally, the lack of fuel affects the distributed generation plants, worsening the energy crisis. These limitations hinder meeting the electrical demand of the population.
How do blackouts affect daily life in Cuba?
Blackouts severely impact the daily life of Cubans, hindering essential activities such as cooking meals and using household appliances. The population is showing increasing discontent due to the constant disruptions, which also affects the economy and the overall well-being of Cuban society.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the energy crisis?
The government's response has been insufficient to address the energy crisis. Effective long-term solutions have not been implemented, and the population continues to suffer from the effects of power outages. Promises of improvement have not materialized, leading to frustration and protests in various regions of the country.
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