The Cuban regime acknowledged that, due to the complex situation facing the National Electric System (SEN), it will not be able to meet the scheduled rotation of blackouts in Santiago de Cuba.
In a report from the electrical company of that province, the managers announced that for this Saturday, there is a power deficit exceeding 1,970 megawatts (MW) during the nighttime peak, which will necessitate increasing the levels of impact on the electricity supply.
In light of this situation, the authorities recommended that the population stay "informed" through "official channels," even though millions of people will have no electricity to turn on the radio, television, or check social media.
The recorded energy deficit reflects the crisis of the SEN, which directly affects the quality and continuity of electrical service in the region.
Dozens of residents from Santiago reacted with anger to the company's statement, showcasing the widespread discontent caused by the power outages.
"The deficit is high, but please inform us; we are left without guidance to plan our lives. They bring it in and take it out like a bad surprise. How much longer will we endure so many lies? They announced that there would be improvement in the summer, and we are worse off. ExpoCaribe for what? What does that solve for the people? More misery and need, and increased energy consumption," a Cuban woman condemned angrily.
Another person added: "The complex situation has been caused by the years that no one cares about this town. I don't know how they can cynically say that they can't meet a schedule that you review and only offers three hours of electricity a day to many circuits, but there are prioritized ones left out."
According to the official report from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), the expected generation deficit during today's peak hours will be 1,977 MW, a figure that even exceeds the historical record of last April, when a deficit of 1,901 MW was reported.
This figure amounts to leaving more than half of the country without electricity at the peak of demand, and marks a new level in the technical collapse of the SEN, increasingly unable to meet the minimum needs of the population.
The technical report reveals a bleak situation: units 5 and 6 of the Mariel CTE, unit 6 of the Nuevitas CTE, and unit 2 of the Felton CTE remain out of service due to breakdowns. Additionally, units 2 of the Santa Cruz CTE, 4 of Cienfuegos, and 5 of Renté are under maintenance.
Thermal limitations affect 383 MW, and the lack of fuel keeps 73 distributed generation plants (618 MW) out of operation, in addition to another 61 MW due to issues with the Regla transmission line and a lack of oil.
Although the country has 18 photovoltaic solar parks, its contribution remains symbolic: only 1,520 MWh generated yesterday and a peak of 303 MW, unable to fill the gap left by the thermal collapse and the lack of fossil resources.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
Why can't the Cuban government comply with the power outage rotation in Santiago de Cuba?
The Cuban government is unable to adhere to the scheduled blackouts in Santiago de Cuba due to a significant energy deficit in the National Electric System (SEN), which exceeds 1,970 MW during peak night hours. This situation results from multiple breakdowns and a lack of maintenance in thermal power plants, as well as a shortage of fuel and lubricants. This technical collapse directly impacts the quality and continuity of the electricity service in the region.
What is the current situation of the National Electric System (SEN) in Cuba?
The National Electroenergetic System (SEN) in Cuba is currently facing a severe crisis, with a recurring energy deficit that exceeds 1,800 MW during peak hours. This deficit is caused by breakdowns in several thermal units, postponed maintenance, and a shortage of fuel and oil that impacts distributed generation. Despite the implementation of photovoltaic solar parks, their contribution is insufficient to meet the country's energy needs.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to mitigate the energy crisis through the construction of photovoltaic solar parks, but this effort has proven insufficient to offset the deficit in electricity generation. Furthermore, there have not been significant investments to address the structural problems of the SEN, such as breakdowns in thermoelectric plants and the scarcity of fuels and lubricants.
How does the energy crisis affect daily life in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba severely affects the daily lives of citizens, who endure prolonged power outages without defined schedules, impacting food preservation, public health, and personal comfort due to heat and lack of ventilation. The uncertainty and lack of clear information from the government exacerbate social discontent and distrust towards the authorities.
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