The thermoelectric plant Antonio Guiteras, the largest electricity generator in the country, "will attempt" to synchronize with the National Electric Power System (SEN) this Sunday, after it could not connect this Saturday due to a lack of energy.
In an update regarding the restoration of the energy service in Matanzas, official journalist José Miguel Solís reported that technicians are currently working on parameter adjustments to attempt synchronization and generate electricity following the massive blackout this Friday.
In what he described as a process that "produces more adrenaline" than extreme sports, Solís specified that a team calibrates valves and makes other adjustments to get the thermoelectric plant up and running.
"La CTE Antonio Guiteras will synchronize this Sunday because what matters is not just attempting it in the face of technological challenges, but doing it well. Best of luck and, of course, our best wishes for doing things right,” he said."
In their opinion, the job was quite difficult, and the workers found ways to get the plant operational.
"It is said that extreme sports generate the highest levels of adrenaline... well, don’t believe it, take a walk around Cte Antonio Guiteras and you will see the reality of how to manage to overcome technology, how to beat sleep and fatigue, how to find time to attend not only to the press but also to stay attentive to dozens of technical parameters before the moment of synchronization," he wrote.
Later, reporter Yuni Moliner emphasized that the machines are operating at normal speed and are working to create the conditions to coordinate with the National Office to incorporate it into the system.
This Saturday, the executives of Guiteras announced that they did not have power available to start up the plant.
Therefore, as argued by the maintenance chief Elmer García Romero, they were "taking advantage" to "repair a pore in a water wall of the boiler."
They would also work on improving the boiler area where a "hot spot" is located, as well as the cleaning of the regenerative air heaters.
For his part, the director of the plant, Rubén Campos Olmos, indicated that starting the plant from a "cold state" required at least six hours, with an additional hour needed for synchronization with the national electrical system (SEN).
The Energás Varadero plant already had power this Saturday to start up and supply the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, according to the company executives, but it was not enough to get the thermoelectric plant running.
According to the Electric Company of Matanzas, this Sunday, 18 circuits will be in service.
However, they warned that while the "consolidation process of the microsystems" is ongoing, it may be unstable.
"That is the reason why the current can come and go to those circuits that have already been provided with electrical service."
The general blackout in Cuba this Friday was caused by a failure at the Diezmero electrical substation, due to an issue with the insulation of a component of the line that had been in service for many years.
The lack of preventive maintenance and the inability to replace aging components due to market restrictions also contributed to the collapse of the national electrical system.
Although the Cuban government has implemented "microsystems" to supply energy to specific areas and vital centers, these temporary solutions have proven insufficient to effectively stabilize the power supply, and the population continues to experience prolonged blackouts.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant and its impact on the Cuban electrical system
Why has the Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant been disconnected again from the National Electroenergetic System?
The Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant was disconnected from the National Electric 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 continuous operation.
What impact does the shutdown of the CTE Antonio Guiteras have on the electricity supply in Cuba?
The departure of the CTE Antonio Guiteras from the SEN significantly exacerbates the country's energy situation, increasing power outages. The power plant is essential to alleviate these outages, but its inability to operate continuously highlights the deficiencies in Cuba's energy infrastructure.
What have been the most common technical difficulties at the CTE Antonio Guiteras in recent months?
The CTE Antonio Guiteras has faced several technical difficulties, such as gas leaks, issues with the oil system for turbine valve control, and severe contamination of heat exchange surfaces. These problems have resulted in frequent and prolonged shutdowns of the plant. These incidents highlight the lack of proper maintenance and the obsolescence of its infrastructure.
What measures are being taken to improve the energy situation in Cuba?
The Cuban government has implemented a prolonged maintenance strategy at thermal power plants to try to ensure electric service. In addition, new photovoltaic parks are being installed to increase energy availability. Despite these efforts, authorities acknowledge that blackouts will continue until 2025 due to the current limitations of the system.
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 operate at the limit of its capabilities and faces significant challenges due to its outdated infrastructure and lack of adequate resources for maintenance.
Filed under: