The Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric power plant, the most strategic one in the country, remains out of the national electrical system after more than 48 hours of intensive maintenance. Despite the announcement of a schedule of 84 hours to complete the technical work, there is still no specific date for its reintegration, leaving a population affected by prolonged blackouts, extreme heat, and a structural collapse of the energy system in suspense.
The technical deputy Román Pérez Castañeda explained to the journalist José Miguel Solís from the state-run Radio 26 that the most complex tasks focus on repairing a feeding pump essential for the boiler, as well as the starting transformer.
The operation includes 24-hour shifts with the involvement of several entities, but the authorities have not confirmed whether the three-day deadline will be met.
Meanwhile, the country is recording record figures of impact. Last Tuesday, the electrical deficit reached 2,020 megawatts at 10:00 p.m., marking one of the worst days of the year, according to data from the Electric Union (UNE).
This Wednesday, the outlook remains bleak: the system has only 1,880 MW available against a demand of 3,140 MW, with an estimated shortfall of 1,850 MW during peak nighttime hours.
In addition to the Guiteras, six other thermoelectric plants are out of service due to breakdowns or maintenance, and more than 80 distributed generation plants are not operating due to a lack of fuel. The 21 new solar parks provide only minimal relief: their support does not compensate for the thermal limitations or the shortage of diesel, gas, and fuel oil.
The director of Guiteras, Rubén Campos, had warned that the unit was already operating at only 210 MW, below its nominal capacity, due to leaks in the high-temperature reheater. The goal of the maintenance is to recover at least 40 MW, but the magnitude of the crisis makes any progress insufficient.
While official reports focus on figures and timelines, the reality on the streets is different. Social unrest is escalating. Power outages not only affect quality of life but also paralyze hospitals, disrupt food production, damage appliances, and create an atmosphere of hopelessness. For many, this is a national emergency that the government has failed to resolve or address with effective measures.
In a country where nearly 9 out of 10 families live in extreme poverty, the collapse of the electrical system becomes a direct threat to everyday survival.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba and the Antonio Guiteras Power Plant
What is the current situation of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant in Cuba?
The Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant is out of service due to technical problems, including a breakdown in a feed pump and the starting transformer. There is no clear date for its reintegration into the national electrical system, which worsens the energy crisis in Cuba.
What are the consequences of the energy crisis in Cuba for the population?
Extended blackouts severely impact the quality of life for Cubans, paralyzing hospitals, interrupting food production, and damaging appliances. Furthermore, the lack of electricity creates an environment of hopelessness and social unrest in a country where the majority of families live in extreme poverty.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has announced investments to restore capacity and modernize infrastructure, including the purchase of mobile generation units. However, the credibility of these promises is low, and the population continues to suffer from massive blackouts without effective short-term solutions.
Why is the Antonio Guiteras thermal power plant crucial for the Cuban electricity system?
The Antonio Guiteras is the largest energy generating unit in Cuba and is regarded as the backbone of the country's thermal generation. Its operational status is crucial to meet the national electricity demand, and any interruption in its functioning exacerbates the existing energy crisis.
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