Cuba's Electric Union (UNE) reported on Saturday that the National Electric System (SEN) continues to operate with a significant generation deficit, which has caused uninterrupted blackouts over the last 24 hours and will result in further disruptions throughout the day.
On Friday, the maximum impact was 1584 MW at 9:00 PM, not coinciding with peak demand hour, and exceeding the planned figure due to the non-entry of unit 6 of the Mariel CTE.
The situation remained that way throughout the early hours of today.
According to the official report, the system's availability at 7:00 am was 1,820 megawatts (MW) compared to a demand of 2,900 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,134 MW.
It is estimated that around noon the impact will be about 1,100 MW.
Multiple failures and fuel shortages
The energy outlook continues to be worsened by breakdowns at key thermal power plants: Unit 6 of the Mariel Thermoelectric Plant and Unit 2 of the Felton Thermoelectric Plant are out of service due to technical issues.
In addition, another five units from the plants in Santa Cruz, Cienfuegos, Nuevitas, and Renté are undergoing scheduled maintenance.
This is in addition to thermal limitations that take another 294 MW out of service.
The lack of fuel continues to be a critical factor
68 distributed generation plants are shut down for this reason.
235 MW cannot operate due to a shortage of oil in the engines.
In total, 749 MW are out of the system due to fuel-related issues.
Insufficient solar energy
The 12 solar photovoltaic parks recently integrated into the system only contributed 1,517 MWh, an amount insufficient to cover the current deficit.
Forecast for peak hours
For tonight's peak hours, the UNE estimates a availability of 1,890 MW and a maximum demand of 3,350 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,460 MW.
If conditions remain the same, authorities forecast an impact of up to 1,530 MW during that period.
Rotating blackouts in Havana
The Electric Company of Havana announced on its Facebook page the block blackout schedule for this Saturday, with outages planned at various times:
Block #3: from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Block #4: from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
Block #5: from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Block #1: from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Block #2: from 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Energy crisis without immediate solution
Despite government announcements regarding the incorporation of solar parks and plans to increase the use of renewable energy, Cuba's energy situation remains critical, with daily blackouts affecting the economy, daily life, and basic services across the Island.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the current situation of the electrical system in Cuba?
The electrical system in Cuba faces a severe deficit in power generation, with continuous outages due to the inability to meet demand. This deficit is a result of breakdowns in thermal power plants, fuel shortages, and maintenance issues with units, impacting daily life and the economy of the country.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to tackle the energy crisis?
Although the Cuban government has announced the addition of solar parks and plans to increase the use of renewable energy, these measures have not been sufficient to solve the energy crisis. The lack of fuel remains a critical barrier to significant recovery in the short term.
How do blackouts affect the Cuban population?
The energy crisis severely affects the quality of life of Cubans, generating social and economic unrest. Prolonged blackouts impact the functioning of basic services such as hospitals and water supplies, as well as causing economic losses in sectors like commerce and dining.
What are the main causes of the energy deficit in Cuba?
The main causes of the energy deficit include breakdowns in thermoelectric plants, maintenance of units, and fuel shortages. These technical and material limitations keep the National Electric System (SEN) operating on the brink of collapse, with no immediate capacity to respond.
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