Cuba faces another week beginning with power outages that are prolonged, due to the severe deficit in the generation capacity of the National Electric System (SEN).
According to the report issued by the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), a supply of only 1,910 MW is expected against a maximum demand of 3,350 MW, representing a deficit of 1,440 MW and a projected impact of up to 1,510 MW during peak hours.
Critical state of the SEN
At 7:00 a.m. on this Monday, the National Electric System (SEN) had 1,800 MW of available capacity against a demand of 2,850 MW, resulting in an impact of 1,092 MW due to lack of capacity. By noon, it is expected that the impact will reach 1,100 MW.
On Sunday, the electrical service was disrupted for 24 hours, and this morning also began with power outages. The most significant impact occurred at 9:20 p.m., with a loss of 1,074 MW during the peak national demand period.
Main causes of the collapse
Among the main incidents reported are:
Breakdown: Unit 2 of the Felton CTE
Maintenance:
Unit 2 of CTE Santa Cruz
Unit 4 of CTE Cienfuegos
Unit 5 of CTE Nuevitas
Unit 5 of CTE Renté
Thermal limitations: 319 MW out of service
Fuel shortage: 72 distributed generation plants offline (494 MW), Patana de Melones (134 MW), and Patana de Regla (26 MW). Total affected by fuel shortage: 654 MW
The total production from the 11 new photovoltaic solar parks was only 980 MWh, a contribution that remains insufficient given the scale of the energy deficit.
Havana is not immune to power outages
The Electric Company of Havana confirmed on that scheduled power outages in the capital will also be implemented. The schedule of affected areas for today includes:
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.: Block #2
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.: Block #1
3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.: Block #3
7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.: Block #5
8:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.: Block #4
Undoubtedly, the outlook is far from hopeful, and the families on the island will experience another Monday in darkness.
Frequently Asked Questions about Blackouts in Cuba
What is the main cause of power outages in Cuba?
The main cause of power outages in Cuba is the significant deficit in electricity generation capacity. This deficit is due to multiple failures in thermoelectric plants and the lack of fuel for distributed generation, which prevents meeting the country's electricity demand.
How is the lack of fuel affecting electricity generation in Cuba?
The lack of fuel has rendered 72 distributed generation plants out of service. This significantly affects the response capacity of the National Electrical System (SEN) and contributes to the generation deficit and the massive blackouts experienced by the country.
What are the main power plants affected in Cuba?
The main power plants affected include Unit 2 of the Felton Thermal Power Plant and other units under maintenance such as the Santa Cruz Thermal Power Plant, Cienfuegos Thermal Power Plant, and Renté Thermal Power Plant. These breakdowns and maintenance activities further limit the electricity generation capacity in the country.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to partially integrate some thermoelectric units and restore areas affected by breakdowns. However, these measures have not been sufficient to resolve the energy crisis facing the country, and the lack of fuel remains a critical barrier to a short-term solution.
How are power outages affecting daily life in Cuba?
Blackouts severely affect the daily lives of Cubans, disrupting essential activities such as cooking and the use of appliances. The population is experiencing growing discontent and frustration due to the frequency and duration of power outages, which negatively impacts the economy and overall well-being.
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