The National Electric System (SEN) recorded a record generation deficit of 1,901 megawatts (MW) this Wednesday during the peak hours at 8:10 PM.
The official journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso stated that "the country recorded the highest deficit in recent years, according to data from the daily report of the Electric Union (UNE)." He attributed this critical situation to "fuel shortages," which have an impact on electricity generation.
The official report from UNE indicates that the situation exceeded the planned expectations due to fuel limitations, particularly at the Melones plant, one of the critical facilities for distributed generation.
This is compounded by multiple breakdowns, scheduled maintenance at the thermal power plants, and a troubling lack of investment in energy infrastructure.
Cubans express strong criticisms of the government
"Those of us who live in the interior of the country know it... We live in perpetual gloom," lamented a citizen on social media. Another person commented that, in their opinion, the government "is gouging fuel prices for the activities on May 1st."
An internet user expressed: "This is a lack of respect. If it was known that there was a fuel limitation at that plant, why was the deficit planned to be so low? Nobody here is a fool. Look closely at how they plan the lies."
However, there were also Cubans who took the critical situation with satirical humor: "How great that we are breaking a record. It's a joy to live in this country!"
In many areas, blackouts have lasted over 20 hours a day for months. This impacts the quality of life for Cubans in every aspect and paralyzes the national economy. It is a problem that has persisted for years, and the government is unable to find solutions in the short, medium, or long term.
Solar energy: A ray of hope?
The regime relies on solar energy to resolve the energy crisis in Cuba, but the UNE only produced 1,064 MWh in the eight new photovoltaic solar parks.
The advances in solar energy are insufficient to compensate for the standstill of the thermoelectric plants, which have gone years without receiving significant investments from the government. The outcome is a collapsed network, with extended maintenance and a growing dependence on diesel that no longer arrives.
The official discourse seems exhausted in the face of a population that demands concrete solutions rather than more justifications. The widespread perception is that the current energy model is in ruins, and neither the State nor its spokespersons have convincing answers.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the main cause of the electricity deficit in Cuba?
The electrical deficit in Cuba is due to a combination of fuel limitations, malfunctions in thermal power plants, and a lack of investments in energy infrastructure. These conditions have led to the collapse of the National Electric System (SEN), resulting in prolonged blackouts throughout the country.
How is the energy crisis impacting the daily life of Cubans?
The energy crisis severely affects the quality of life for Cubans. Power outages lasting over 20 hours a day disrupt essential activities, paralyze the economy, and generate widespread discontent among the population, which demands effective solutions from the government.
Is solar energy a viable solution for the energy crisis in Cuba?
Advancements in solar energy in Cuba are insufficient to address the current energy crisis. Despite the construction of new solar parks, their production does not compensate for the lack of generation from thermal power plants, and the country continues to rely on diesel, whose supplies are limited.
What stance has the Cuban government taken regarding the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has committed to solar energy as a solution to the energy crisis, but it has not presented solutions for the short, medium, or long term. The population criticizes the lack of results and the inadequacy of the measures taken, which has exacerbated social discontent.
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