The Electric Union of Cuba (UNE) reported this Thursday that the national electrical system (SEN) remained affected throughout the day yesterday, with a peak impact due to a generation capacity deficit of 1,919 MW at 9:40 PM, precisely during the peak demand period.
Although the island has incorporated 24 new solar photovoltaic parks, which delivered 2,560 MWh and reached a maximum power of 574 MW at noon, the energy generated from renewable sources remains insufficient to alleviate the severe crisis of the thermoelectric system.
At 7:00 a.m. this Thursday, the availability of the National Electric System (SEN) was 1,750 MW, compared to a demand of 3,150 MW, resulting in a shortfall of 1,438 MW due to capacity deficit. By noon, the National Electric Union (UNE) estimated that the shortfall would remain around 1,350 MW.
The situation is worsening due to multiple breakdowns and maintenance at the main thermoelectric plants in the country.
The unit of the CTE Guiteras, unit 4 of Energás Varadero, unit 6 of the CTE Renté, and unit 2 of the CTE Felton remain out of service due to a malfunction. Additionally, unit 2 of the CTE Santa Cruz, unit 4 of the CTE Carlos Manuel de Céspedes in Cienfuegos, and unit 5 of the CTE Renté are under maintenance.
This is compounded by thermal limitations of 321 MW and a concerning lack of fuel, which has rendered 87 distributed generation plants (714 MW) and the Regla barge (55 MW) out of operation, representing a total of 769 MW less in generation capacity.
During the peak night hours, a slight recovery of 105 MW is expected; however, the availability would barely reach 1,855 MW, compared to an estimated demand of 3,650 MW. This would result in a deficit of 1,795 MW and a widespread impact of up to 1,865 MW, according to UNE's forecast.
Havana: over 15 hours without electricity
In the capital of the country, the situation has also been critical. Yesterday, the electric service was interrupted for 15 hours and 53 minutes, reaching a maximum impact of 102 MW at 9:40 PM.
It was finally restored at 6:00 a.m. this Thursday. Although some blocks were not affected, service was interrupted during the early morning hours in reserve blocks.
Everyday consequences of a prolonged crisis
The frequent blackouts are severely affecting daily life across the country. The inability to refrigerate food, cook, use basic electrical appliances, or access digital services is creating an atmosphere of despair and social frustration amidst a deep economic crisis.
The energy uncertainty is not only affecting households but also medical services, small private businesses, and urban infrastructure, plunging a good part of the country into a darkness that seems never-ending.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Electric Crisis in Cuba
What is the main cause of blackouts in Cuba?
The main cause of power outages in Cuba is the deficit in electricity generation capacity. The situation is exacerbated by breakdowns and maintenance in thermal power plants, the lack of fuel, and outdated electrical infrastructure. At times of peak demand, the capacity deficit can exceed 1,900 MW, leading to prolonged and widespread blackouts.
How does the electrical crisis affect daily life in Cuba?
The electrical crisis severely impacts daily life in Cuba. Constant power outages hinder food preservation, cooking, and the use of basic electrical appliances, creating an atmosphere of despair and social unrest. Moreover, medical services, small private businesses, and urban infrastructure also bear the brunt of the electricity shortages.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to alleviate the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to mitigate the energy crisis by incorporating photovoltaic solar parks, although the energy generated by these renewable sources remains insufficient. Scheduled blackouts have also been implemented in an effort to distribute the limited electricity available. However, these measures have not been enough to resolve the critical situation of the electrical system.
What is the current situation of thermal power plants in Cuba?
Several units of Cuba's main thermoelectric plants are out of service due to breakdowns and scheduled maintenance. Key units at plants such as Guiteras, Renté, Felton, and Energás Varadero have been inoperative, significantly reducing electricity generation capacity. The lack of proper maintenance and the aging of facilities are recurring issues that impact the Cuban thermoelectric sector.
What are the prospects for improving the electrical situation in Cuba?
The outlook for improving the electrical situation in Cuba is not encouraging. Although there are discussions about strategies to recover the National Electric System, the lack of fuel, technological deterioration, and structural improvisation remain unresolved issues. In the meantime, the population endures prolonged blackouts with no clear solution in sight.
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