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The Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant (CTE), located in Matanzas, synchronized with the National Electric System (SEN) this Sunday after completing technical adjustments for its reactivation.
According to the newspaper Girón, the largest electricity generation plant in the country started operating in the afternoon, strengthening the energy supply in the country, following the massive blackout last Friday.
Rubén Campos Olmos, director of the thermoelectric plant, confirmed that the synchronization was successful and that the initial plan is to gradually increase generation.
"We entered about 15-20 minutes ago. It is a first step. If there are no issues, we will initially increase to 120 MW and then, in coordination with the national dispatch, up to 200 MW," explained Campos Olmos.
The commissioning of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant strengthens the stability of the electrical system, which already links territories from Guantánamo to Mariel.
However, the process of energy generation and loading will depend on the operational conditions of the plant and the national demand.
The journalist José Miguel Solís confirmed on his Facebook account the synchronization of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant, which took place at 4:02 p.m., highlighting that the plant is in the process of gradually increasing its load to stabilize the electrical system.
"Guiteras synchronized at 4:02. Now at 108 MW and cautiously increasing load to protect the stability of the system that connects it with the eastern part of the nation and Mariel," Solís wrote in his post.
According to the journalist, since reaching 60 MW, the plant has been able to sustain itself without requiring external power from the electrical system, solidifying its generation independently.
Additionally, he explained that in coordination with the National Cargo Office, the thermoelectric plant could conservatively reach 200 MW.
Solís also noted that if the process of incorporating other units continues without interruptions, there is the possibility of meeting the electrical demand during the early hours of the morning.
"Bravo to all those who have made the impossible possible, who tried to engrave it," he concluded, highlighting the efforts of the workers who achieved the synchronization of the Guiteras despite the technical challenges.
Hours earlier, the state journalist had reported that technicians were working on adjusting parameters to attempt synchronization and generate electricity following the massive blackout on Friday.
The Cuban government had stated that it was "taking advantage" of the massive blackout that affected the island to carry out maintenance work at the Guiteras, tasks that were originally scheduled for next week.
This was explained by the maintenance chief of Guiteras, Elmer García, who told Periódico Girón that one of the priority tasks involves addressing "a hot spot" in the boiler, where worn plates and thermal insulation have been restored.
Before Guiteras synchronized with the SEN, the Electric Company of Havana reported this Sunday that, although all municipalities in the capital now have electrical service, it has not been fully restored.
So far, only 30.5% of the city's electricity demand has been met, with 57 connected circuits totaling 117.53 MW, as specified by the state company on its social media.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Antonio Guiteras Power Plant and its Impact on the Cuban Electric System
Why was the Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant disconnected from the National Electric System (SEN)?
The Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant has been disconnected from the National Electrical System (SEN) due to a technical issue related to the fuel preparation station. This adjustment is part of the efforts to stabilize the plant and ensure its sustained operation. Over the past few months, the plant has faced multiple technical problems that have impacted its capacity for continuous generation.
What is the impact of the CTE Antonio Guiteras going offline on Cuba's electricity supply?
The shutdown of the CTE Antonio Guiteras from the SEN significantly worsens the country's energy situation, increasing blackouts. Since the Guiteras is one of the largest power generation units in the country, its disconnection highlights the deficiencies in Cuba's energy infrastructure and contributes to an electric crisis that results in prolonged power outages for the population.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to improve the energy situation?
The Cuban government has implemented a long-term maintenance strategy for thermoelectric plants and the installation of new photovoltaic parks. These actions aim to increase energy availability and mitigate power outages, although it is acknowledged that deficiencies in the system will keep the situation critical until 2025. Additionally, investments are being made in the modernization of existing plants to enhance their efficiency.
What are the expectations for the future operation of the CTE Antonio Guiteras?
The expectations for the future operation of the CTE Antonio Guiteras are focused on achieving stable synchronization with the SEN and overcoming current technical issues. However, the plant continues to face significant challenges due to its outdated infrastructure and the lack of adequate resources for maintenance, complicating its long-term operation.
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