The severe energy crisis that Cuba is experiencing has forced the suspension of the planned rotation of blackouts in the capital due to insufficient generation capacity of the National Electric System (SEN).
The Electric Company of Havana informed this Friday through its Telegram channel that the lack of available generation makes it impossible to adhere to the established power outage schedules, and warned about the need for constant adjustments to the timing of these outages.
"Currently, blocks 3 and 5 are experiencing deficits, while service is gradually being restored in block 2. Interruptions are expected to last an average of four hours, but after midnight, emergency outages may extend for another hour," the electricity authorities specified through their official channels.
The energy landscape on the island worsened this Friday with one of the highest deficits recorded in recent years. According to the Electric Union (UNE), a deficit of 1,870 megawatts (MW) is expected during peak nighttime hours, which represents over 52% of the national demand, estimated at 3,570 MW.
Since the early hours, the situation was already critical. By 7:00 a.m., the available generation only reached 1,390 MW against a demand that exceeded 2,800 MW, which left vast areas of the country without electrical service.
The UNE report details a series of malfunctions in the main thermoelectric plants, with five units out of service in Mariel, Nuevitas, Felton, and Renté. Additionally, three blocks are undergoing maintenance at the plants in Santa Cruz, Cienfuegos, and Renté.
In addition to the outages, there is a chronic shortage of fuel, which has left 98 distributed generation plants inactive, resulting in a loss of 573 MW, along with 110 MW at the Mariel fuel plant and another 36 MW due to a lack of oil for engines. In total, over 700 MW remain offline due to a lack of energy resources.
Despite the launch of 18 new solar photovoltaic parks, their contribution remains limited compared to the collapse of the thermal system.
On Thursday, these facilities generated only 1,220 MWh, with a maximum power of 287 MW at noon.
Although the inclusion of some smaller sources is anticipated, such as unit 3 of Energás Varadero (30 MW), the Mariel fuel plant (110 MW), unit 5 of Nuevitas (55 MW), and the fuel plant in Moa (115 MW), the gap between electricity supply and demand will remain critical.
If the deficit of 1,870 MW is confirmed, this Friday would mark the third worst day for blackouts in recent years, only surpassed by the records of 1,901 MW in April and 1,880 MW last Saturday.
Meanwhile, the Cuban population continues to face extensive blackouts, without effective alternatives to cope with the lack of electricity, amid high summer temperatures and the deterioration of basic services.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis and Blackouts in Cuba
What is the main cause of power outages in Cuba?
The primary cause of blackouts in Cuba is the deficit in electric generation, attributed to a combination of breakdowns in thermoelectric plants, maintenance of units, and fuel shortages. This situation has been worsened by the structural deterioration of the National Electrical System (SEN) and the lack of investments in infrastructure.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to incorporate renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic solar parks, to alleviate the burden on the system. However, these measures have not been sufficient to resolve the crisis. Moreover, maintenance is being carried out on some generating units, but the lack of resources and outdated infrastructure significantly limit the results.
How does the electrical deficit affect the Cuban population?
The Cuban population is facing prolonged blackouts, which affect the quality of life by interrupting daily activities such as cooking, refrigerating food, and enduring the heat. The blackouts also negatively impact productive sectors, health, and education, creating an atmosphere of frustration and uncertainty.
What impact does the fuel shortage have on Cuba's energy crisis?
The shortage of fuel is one of the main issues facing the Cuban electric system. This shortage keeps many distributed generation plants inactive and limits thermal generation capacity, significantly contributing to the electrical deficit and prolonged blackouts across the country.
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