In the midst of the general blackout that has affected Cuba for the past 15 hours, the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric power plant in Matanzas, the largest in the country, does not have the energy to reconnect to the system.
"The situation is complex due to the weak restoration of service and the new failure of the eastern microsystem," admitted the director of the provincial electric company, Alejandro Rodríguez Aspeitía.
The official explained that they have not been able to start the Energás Varadero plant, which is awaiting energy from Yaguaramas in Cienfuegos.
"The Antonio Guiteras Power Station is also waiting to receive energy to reconnect," he emphasized.
According to journalist José Miguel Solís, when the National Electroenergetic System (SEN) disconnected on Friday at 8:15 PM, the workers at Guiteras began corrective actions so that once they receive energy - the unit requires approximately 10 MW - they could start the startup process, which is estimated for Saturday afternoon.
Engineer Rubén Campos Olmos, general director of the thermal power plant, detailed that they are close to completing the washing of the regenerative air heaters, addressing a critical issue in the boiler, and other necessary tasks.
Once the plant is up and running -which should take four to six hours- the goal is to maintain it at a minimum of 200 MW.
"Everything depends on receiving energy from the microsystems that have been created," specified Campos Olmos.
Currently, four microsystems are operational in Matanzas, providing services to several hospitals in the capital city and the municipality of Colón, as well as to water pumping units.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba and the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant
Why is the Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant crucial for the Cuban energy system?
The Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant is a pillar of the Cuban energy system due to its generation capacity and its importance in mitigating blackouts in a region with high electricity demand. Its continuous operation is vital for reducing interruptions in the electricity supply in Cuba.
What caused the recent collapse of the National Electric Power System (SEN) in Cuba?
The recent collapse of the SEN was due to the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant, the largest on the island, which caused a massive blackout. Inadequate maintenance and the structural deterioration of the plant were key factors in this incident.
How has this energy crisis affected the Cuban population?
The energy crisis has severely impacted the quality of life for the Cuban population, with blackouts lasting up to 20 hours a day. This has restricted access to basic services such as food, water, and healthcare, increasing social frustration and leading to protests in various regions of the country.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has promised to work tirelessly to resolve the crisis, but so far the efforts have been ineffective. "Microsystems" are being implemented and purchases of fuels and supplies are being made, but the lack of a clear and effective strategy is evident, leaving the population with few visible improvements.
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