The Unit One of the Thermoelectric Power Plant ("Lidio Ramón Pérez"), known as "Felton" because it is located in the homonymous town in eastern Cuba, has begun a shutdown process to carry out maintenance on its boiler, specifically on the regenerative air heaters.
Work is scheduled to last for approximately 36 hours, according to user Emilio Rodríguez Pupo on his Facebook profile.
The output from this energy unit occurs in an especially critical context for the national electrical system, which is already facing a significant imbalance between supply and demand.
The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) forecasts a maximum impact of 1,530 megawatts (MW) during the peak hours of July 8, as the estimated availability will be 2,090 MW, compared to a demand that could reach 3,550 MW.
This Tuesday morning, the system's availability was 1,940 MW, while the demand stood at 2,900 MW, resulting in a real impact of 988 MW. By noon, the UNE anticipates an increase in power outages, with an estimated impact of 1,050 MW.
During the previous day, the highest recorded impact was 1,473 MW at 8:00 PM, although it did not coincide with the peak demand period.
In the midst of this energy crisis, the 18 photovoltaic solar parks in the country generated 2,140 megawatt-hours (MWh), peaking at 430 MW delivered during midday hours.
The temporary exit of Felton Uno adds to the already fragile situation of the Cuban electro-energy system, which continues to face significant stresses due to the deterioration of its infrastructure, fuel shortages, and limited renewable generation capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Blackouts and the Energy Crisis in Cuba
Why is Unit One of the Felton Thermal Power Plant out of service?
Unit One of the "Lidio Ramón Pérez" Thermoelectric Power Plant is out of service due to maintenance work on its boiler. This maintenance focuses on the regenerative air heaters and is scheduled to last about 36 hours. This situation worsens the already critical state of the Cuban electrical system, which is facing a significant imbalance between energy supply and demand.
What is the impact of Felton Uno's exit on Cuba's electrical system?
The temporary outage of Felton Uno exacerbates the already fragile situation of the Cuban electro-energy system, which faces a generation deficit against a high demand. By July 8, Cuba's Electric Union forecasted a maximum impact of 1,530 MW during peak hours due to this lack of generation capacity. The shortage of fuel and limitations in renewable generation also contribute to this crisis.
What is the overall status of the electric system in Cuba?
The Cuban electrical system is in a critical state, with frequent and prolonged blackouts due to multiple factors such as the deterioration of infrastructure, fuel shortages, and the inability to meet energy demand. The shutdown of several thermoelectric plants and constant breakdowns further complicate the situation, affecting the daily lives of citizens and the operation of essential services.
How does the energy crisis impact daily life in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba severely affects daily life, causing interruptions in power supply that complicate access to basic services such as drinking water, healthcare, and transportation. Prolonged blackouts also negatively impact the economy, forcing many small businesses to halt their operations. Frustration among the population is growing as the government fails to provide effective short-term solutions.
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