The National Electroenergetic System (SEN) is going through another critical day this Tuesday, with impacts exceeding 1,500 MW and scheduled outages in several areas of the Cuban capital.
The country's energy situation remains critical. This Monday, the electricity service experienced interruptions throughout the 24 hours, reaching a peak impact of 1,801 MW at 8:10 PM, coinciding with the peak demand time. This figure exceeded the planned amount due to higher-than-expected consumption, according to the Unión Eléctrica de Cuba (UNE).
Scheduled blackouts in Havana
The Electric Company of Havana announced a schedule of power cuts for the capital as a measure to address the deficit. The blackouts are distributed as follows:
- Block 2: from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Block 1: from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Block 3: from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Block 4: from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Low availability and limited generation in Cuba
At 7:00 a.m. this Tuesday, the availability of the National Electric System (SEN) was 1,687 MW, against a demand of 2,780 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,136 MW due to generation capacity issues. It is estimated that the impacts could reach 1,200 MW during daytime hours.
The outlook for peak hours, in the evening, is even more complex as a demand of 3,500 MW is expected, with an availability of only 1,927 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,573 MW. Consequently, a shortfall of 1,643 MW is anticipated during that period.
Breakdowns, maintenance, and lack of fuel
Among the causes of the deficit is the unavailability of several generation units. Units 6 and 8 of the Mariel CTE and unit 2 of the Felton CTE are reported as out of service due to breakdowns. Under maintenance are unit 2 of Santa Cruz, units 3 and 4 of Cienfuegos, and unit 5 of Renté.
Additionally, 58 distributed generation plants are out of service due to a lack of fuel, affecting 307 MW, while 186 MW are unavailable due to a shortage of lubricants.
Solar energy, an insufficient relief
The eight new photovoltaic solar parks contributed 1,010 MWh during the previous day. While this represents a significant contribution of renewable energy, it is still insufficient to meet national demand.
Authorities anticipate the partial operation of some units to alleviate the load during peak nighttime hours, such as the return of unit 6 from the CTE Mariel with 100 MW, and the recovery of another 140 MW from distributed generation engines and unit 1 of Felton.
Frequently asked questions about blackouts and the energy crisis in Cuba
What is the main cause of power outages in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba is due to a deficit in electricity generation that has exceeded 1,500 MW, caused by breakdowns in thermoelectric power plants, scheduled maintenance, and a lack of fuel. These limitations have resulted in prolonged and widespread blackouts across the country.
How do power outages affect the Cuban population?
Blackouts seriously affect the daily lives of Cubans, impacting essential activities such as cooking, the use of appliances, and food preservation. They also affect basic services and create an atmosphere of uncertainty and despair among the population.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to mitigate the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has announced the addition of new photovoltaic solar parks and the receipt of donated equipment for photovoltaic expansion. However, these measures are not enough to resolve the structural crisis of the electrical system, which continues to be affected by outdated thermoelectric plants and a lack of adequate investment.
What are the schedules for the scheduled blackouts in Havana?
The Electric Company of Havana has announced a schedule of planned outages, which varies by blocks. For example, the blocks in the capital may be affected at different times, such as from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for Block 2, and from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for Block 4, depending on the management needs of the deficit.
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