Related videos:
Cuba continues to face severe disruptions in its electricity service, with a deficit that once again exceeded 1,200 megawatts (MW) this Thursday, according to the Electric Union (UNE).
The agency detailed that the electricity service had been restored in the early morning at 12:39 AM, but the situation became complicated again starting at 6:15 AM on March 21, when the disruptions began.
The previous day ended with a peak impact of 1,238 MW at 7:50 PM, which was the time of highest demand.
For this Friday, the system availability is at 1,920 MW, while the demand reaches 2,060 MW. This has resulted in a current deficit of 177 MW, although the forecasts are not promising. By noon, UNE predicts 550 MW affected, and during peak hours, availability is estimated to be 1,980 MW against a demand of 3,150 MW, which would imply a deficit of 1,170 MW and potential impacts of up to 1,240 MW.
The situation is exacerbated by the number of units out of service for maintenance. Currently, the following units are not operational: Unit 5 of the Nuevitas CTE, Unit 2 of the Felton CTE, Unit 8 of the Mariel CTE, Units 3 and 4 of the Cienfuegos CTE, and Unit 5 of the Renté CTE.
The only hope for partial relief is the possible commissioning of Unit 5 in Nuevitas during the peak demand period, but this is yet to be confirmed.
In Havana, the Electric Company announced scheduled power outages for the day: block 1 will experience interruptions between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., block 2 between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., block 4 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and block 3 between 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
These prolonged and frequent blackouts not only affect the well-being of citizens but also impact the supply of drinking water, food production, and the provision of basic services.
The energy crisis remains one of the major problems affecting the daily lives of Cubans, with the government yet to announce effective solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the current deficit in electricity generation in Cuba?
The current electricity generation deficit in Cuba exceeds 1,200 megawatts (MW). This situation arises from a combination of breakdowns in several thermoelectric plants, scheduled maintenance, and a lack of fuel, which leaves the National Electric System (SEN) unable to meet the country's electricity demand.
How do power outages affect the daily life of Cubans?
Blackouts severely affect the daily lives of Cubans, interrupting essential activities such as cooking and the use of appliances. Furthermore, they negatively impact the economy, the supply of potable water, and basic services, creating a climate of frustration and social discontent among the population.
What measures has the Cuban government taken in response to the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has implemented scheduled blackouts to manage the deficit in electricity generation. However, these measures have been insufficient to address the underlying problem, leading to criticism and protests due to the lack of effective long-term solutions to the energy crisis facing the country.
Which power plants are affected by outages and maintenance?
Several thermoelectric power plants in Cuba are affected by breakdowns and maintenance, including the units at the Mariel, Nuevitas, Felton, and Renté power plants, as well as the units in Santa Cruz and Cienfuegos. These issues significantly contribute to the electricity generation deficit that the island is facing.
Filed under:
