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The energy crisis in Cuba continues unabated, significantly impacting the National Electroenergy System (SEN). On March 14, the country is facing a generation deficit that is causing blackouts across much of the territory.
According to the Cuban Electric Union (UNE), on March 13, the service was interrupted starting at 5:09 AM and remained disrupted throughout the early morning of the following day. The maximum impact reached 1,492 megawatts (MW) at 8:00 PM, exceeding forecasts due to higher-than-expected demand.
Current situation of the SEN
- At 07:00 hours, the availability of the SEN was 1,780 MW, while the demand rose to 2,280 MW, leaving 514 MW out of service.
- For the noon schedule, an impact of 850 MW is expected, with greater effects in the central-eastern region.
- Among the causes of the deficit are failures in thermal generation and lack of fuel.
- Breakdowns have been reported in unit 6 of the Rente CTE and in unit 2 of the Felton CTE, while other plants are undergoing maintenance.
- 73 distributed generation plants are out of service due to lack of fuel, affecting 448 MW.
Forecast for the nighttime peak
For peak demand, the UNE estimates a partial recovery of 160 MW, including the commissioning of Unit 6 of the CTE Rente. However, availability will remain insufficient, with 1,940 MW versus a maximum demand of 3,250 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,310 MW and an estimated impact of 1,380 MW.
Impacts in Havana
The Electric Company of Havana reported that, due to the deficit, power outages in the capital will continue on a rotating schedule. Today, customers from blocks 4, 3, 1, and 2 will experience planned cuts at various times throughout the day.
Energy crisis in Cuba
The energy crisis in Cuba has intensified in recent years, with a power generation system reliant on aging thermal power plants and a chronic fuel shortage. Despite the launch of new photovoltaic solar parks in Havana and Cienfuegos, their contribution remains insufficient to meet national demand.
The blackouts have caused increasing dissatisfaction among the population, which is facing prolonged outages amid high temperatures and with no clear signs of a short-term solution.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the main cause of the energy deficit in Cuba?
The energy deficit in Cuba is primarily due to failures in thermal power plants and a lack of fuel. The country's electrical infrastructure is outdated, and breakdowns in the plants, along with insufficient maintenance and fuel shortages, exacerbate the situation. Despite promises of improvements, the crisis continues to impact the daily lives of Cubans.
How do blackouts affect the Cuban population?
Power outages severely affect the quality of life of the Cuban population, causing discomfort and making access to basic services difficult. Prolonged electricity cuts impact food preservation, access to drinking water, and communication, in addition to hindering the operation of hospitals and other essential services. The population is increasingly showing discontent and despair in the face of the lack of solutions.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the electricity crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to incorporate some thermal power units and conduct maintenance on the plants, but these measures have been insufficient to resolve the energy crisis. The lack of fuel remains a critical impediment, and the electrical infrastructure continues to deteriorate, with no clear short-term solution in sight.
What forecasts are there regarding the energy situation in Cuba?
The forecast for the energy crisis in Cuba remains discouraging, with a persistent deficit affecting the population on a daily basis. Despite some attempts at recovery, experts warn that the electrical system could collapse if effective and sustainable measures are not taken. The current situation shows no signs of improvement in the short term.
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