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Despite the increase in solar energy production, the electricity situation in Cuba remains critical.
The Electric Union (UNE) reported that this Sunday, a demand impact of up to 1,130 MW is expected during peak hours, amid a widespread deficit that has made blackouts a daily occurrence throughout the country.
According to the official report, service was restored this morning at 12:27 am, following a maximum outage recorded of 1,154 MW at 7:50 pm on Saturday, right at the peak demand time.
However, the stability is somewhat shaky. At 7:20 am this Sunday, the service began to be interrupted again, with an availability of 1,930 MW against a demand of 1,813 MW, a situation that is expected to worsen by midday, when a shortfall of 500 MW is anticipated.
The most alarming forecast is for the evening peak hours, when a demand of 3,020 MW is expected, but availability is only estimated at 1,960 MW. This will result in a deficit of 1,060 MW that will directly impact consumers, leading to power outages exceeding 1,100 MW.
Currently, several generating units remain out of service.
Unit 2 of the Felton thermoelectric plant remains out of service, while five other units from the plants in Mariel, Cienfuegos, Santa Cruz, and Renté are also down for maintenance, further diminishing the response capacity of the national system.
In contrast, the UNE highlighted that the new photovoltaic solar parks in Havana, Cienfuegos, and Granma generated 383 MWh, exceeding the planned amount by 107 MWh. This is a positive outcome, but it is insufficient given the magnitude of the electrical deficit.
Late bet on solar energy
The government's new approach to renewable energy sources, especially solar power, comes at a time when the electrical system is in deep disrepair after years of neglect, lack of maintenance, and minimal investment in the country's aging thermoelectric plants.
Specialists and citizens agree that while the development of solar energy is a necessary step, it will not be enough to resolve the structural crisis faced by the system, let alone put an end to the long and frequent blackouts that impact the daily lives of millions of Cubans.
The regime's bet on renewable energies comes late and without the support of a comprehensive plan that includes the modernization of the system, the diversification of the energy matrix, and overall operational efficiency.
Meanwhile, the population continues to face daily power outages that impact not only family well-being but also production, health services, and education.
The country needs much more than scattered solar parks to overcome this crisis: it requires political will, transparency in energy management, and a realistic plan to restore the generating capacity of its plants. Otherwise, darkness will continue to dictate the rhythm of life in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Energy Crisis in Cuba
Why do blackouts continue in Cuba despite the increase in solar energy?
The increase in solar energy is insufficient to cover the deficit in electricity generation in Cuba. Although solar parks have improved production, the generated capacity cannot compensate for the multiple breakdowns in thermal plants and the lack of fuel, resulting in prolonged blackouts.
Which power plants are currently affected in Cuba?
Currently, several thermoelectric plants in Cuba are affected by failures or maintenance, including unit 2 of the Felton CTE and others in Mariel, Cienfuegos, Santa Cruz, and Renté. This situation further limits the country's electricity generation capacity.
How does the lack of investment affect the Cuban electric system?
The lack of investment in the Cuban electrical system has led to a significant deterioration of the infrastructure. This neglect has resulted in a collapse of the National Electric System (SEN), with aging thermoelectric plants lacking proper maintenance, contributing to frequent blackouts.
What measures are being taken to address the electricity crisis in Cuba?
The Cuban government is working to increase generation capacity by incorporating renewable energy, such as solar power. However, these measures are insufficient without a comprehensive plan that includes modernization, diversification of the energy matrix, and improvements in operational efficiency.
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