The Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric power plant in Matanzas is preparing for a scheduled maintenance shutdown next week, with the aim of recovering at least 40 megawatts (MW) of power, authorities reported during a visit from the president of the National Assembly of People's Power, Esteban Lazo.
Currently, the plant generates 210 MW, below its nominal capacity of over 250 MW, due to technical problems in the high-temperature reheater, which cause leaks, excessive water consumption, and a decrease in the steam available for the turbine, explained the unit director, Rubén Campos, in statements published by the weekly Trabajadores.
Intensive maintenance in just 84 hours
According to journalist José Miguel Solís from Radio 26, via the social network Facebook, the maintenance process aims to equal the stated maximum capacity and is designed to be completed in just 84 hours —a little over three days— and it could even be finished in less time if conditions allow.
According to the post, the schedule has been carefully planned to ensure access to all necessary resources and materials.
Official visit and recognition of the workforce collective
During his tour of the plant, Esteban Lazo spoke with the workers and acknowledged their effort, dedication, and commitment amid the challenging conditions of the national electrical system, which is a common theme in the discourse of communists.
According to the agency Prensa Latina, it also emphasized the strategic importance of Guiteras in the country's electricity generation, as it is the largest single unit block of the Cuban energy system.
The president listened to the concerns and proposals of the technical team, reiterating the essential role of the thermoelectric plant in stabilizing electricity production in the current context of energy deficit.
Wednesday amid blackouts: UNE announces electricity deficit exceeding 1,600 MW
Cuba is facing a severe energy crisis with blackouts and a deficit of up to 1,767 MW on Tuesday. A lack of fuel and issues at power plants are worsening the situation, with no immediate solutions in sight.
For this Wednesday, a capacity of 2,120 MW is expected against a maximum demand of 3,680 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,560 MW and an estimated impact of up to 1,630 MW at that time of day.
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