The National Electric System (SEN) remains under significant pressure this Sunday, with a deficit that could exceed 1,300 megawatts (MW) and an expected impact of 1,440 MW during peak hours.
According to the official report from the Electric Union, on Saturday, service was affected for 24 hours, with a maximum disruption of 1588 MW at 8:00 PM.
Although the interruptions briefly stopped at 2:14 AM, the supply was cut off again today at 6:34 AM.
Since the early hours of this morning, an impact of 170 MW was recorded, and by noon, this number is expected to increase to 700 MW.
A critical night ahead
The forecast for peak hours is particularly alarming: a demand of 3,300 MW is estimated, while availability would barely reach 1,930 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,370 MW.
Authorities anticipate that if these conditions persist, the impact on the service could reach up to 1,440 MW, which would result in widespread blackouts across the country.
Insufficient renewable production
Despite the operation of eight new photovoltaic solar parks, which generated a total of 979.9 MWh on Saturday, this production continues to be insufficient to meet national demand, especially during peak consumption hours when solar output declines.
The report highlights several factors that explain the forecast for this day:
Breakdowns: in Unit 1 of the Santa Cruz Thermoelectric Power Plant (CTE) and Unit 2 of the Felton CTE.
Scheduled maintenance: it affects another four units in Santa Cruz, Cienfuegos, and Renté.
Thermal limitations: they keep 391 MW out of service.
Fuel shortage: it has left 82 distributed generation plants inactive, totaling 564 MW less.
Lubricant shortage: it prevents the operation of other units with a total capacity of 178 MW.
A system on the edge
The combination of breakdowns, maintenance issues, and material shortages—especially of fuel and lubricants—keeps the SEN operating on the brink of technical collapse.
The situation not only affects the domestic life of millions of Cubans but also the functioning of basic services, industries, and transportation.
Meanwhile, the authorities have not announced any new structural measures to address the energy crisis, which has worsened in recent years and, according to experts, could continue as long as significant recovery of the energy infrastructure is not achieved and stable fuel supply is not ensured.
With a saturated system and no capacity for immediate response, Cuba faces another day under the shadow of power outages.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the current electricity generation deficit in Cuba?
The current electrical generation deficit in Cuba exceeds 1,300 MW, severely impacting the energy supply during peak hours. This is due to the lack of capacity to meet national demand, which far exceeds the available generation.
What factors contribute to blackouts in Cuba?
Power outages in Cuba are primarily caused by the shutdown of several thermoelectric units due to failures and maintenance, as well as by the lack of fuel affecting distributed generation plants. These limitations prevent the adequate coverage of the country's electrical demand.
How do power outages affect the Cuban population?
Blackouts significantly impact the daily lives of Cubans, complicating essential activities such as food preparation and the use of appliances. Moreover, they generate frustration and social discontent, especially in the lead-up to important events like the holiday festivities.
What measures are being taken to address the energy crisis in Cuba?
Until now, the measures implemented by the Cuban government have been insufficient to resolve the energy crisis. Effective long-term solutions have not been established, and the population continues to suffer the effects of blackouts, leading to increased discontent and protests in various regions.
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