To dampen the enthusiasm of those who thought that the return of the Guiteras thermoelectric plant would bring some relief from the blackouts, the Ministry of Energy and Mines announced that this Saturday the Turkish barge anchored in the port of Havana will be disconnected.
“Today, the disconnection of the 240 MW generator located in Havana will take place for commercial reasons,” explained the electricity director of the Ministry of Energy and Mines. “Measures are being taken to ensure that this disconnection does not increase the levels of impact seen in recent days,” wrote the official journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso on Facebook.
In this way, despite the return to the National Electric System (SEN) of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant, one of the most important energy blocks in the country, power outages will continue without significant changes across Cuba.
According to the informative note published this Saturday by Unión Eléctrica (UNE), the country experienced disruptions throughout the 24 hours of the previous day, a situation that continued into the early hours of today.
At seven in the morning on this Friday, the energy availability of the SEN was only 1,895 MW compared to a demand of 3,245 MW, which represents an impact due to a capacity deficit of 1,325 MW.
During peak hours, availability is expected to reach only 2,022 MW against an estimated maximum demand of 3,700 MW. This would result in a deficit of 1,674 MW and a potential impact of up to 1,744 MW, prolonging blackouts throughout the national territory.
The fleet of Turkish barges has become a key component for electricity generation in Cuba, especially following the deterioration of the country's thermal power plants. The Cuban government has turned to these types of agreements as a temporary solution to address the energy deficit and the prolonged blackouts affecting the population.
In May, the Cuban government had already denied the alleged withdrawal of the Turkish floating power plant Suheyla Sultan installed in Havana Bay, after the independent media outlet 14ymedio reported that one of the barges might be leaving the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Disconnection of the Turkish Patana in Cuba and the Energy Crisis
Why did the Turkish truck disconnect in Havana?
The Turkish tugboat was disconnected for commercial reasons, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mines of Cuba. This measure was taken despite the critical energy situation facing the country, with a significant deficit in electricity generation.
What is the impact of the withdrawal of the Turkish vessel on the Cuban electrical system?
The disconnection of the Turkish barge worsens the deficit in electrical generation capacity in Cuba. The barge provided 240 MW to the National Electric System (SEN), and its removal coincides with a peak demand period, which extends blackouts throughout the country.
How has the energy crisis affected the Cuban population?
The energy crisis has led to prolonged blackouts that severely impact the daily lives of Cubans. The lack of electricity interferes with access to essential services and generates increasing social unrest, especially during the summer when temperatures are higher.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the energy deficit?
The Cuban government has turned to temporary agreements with foreign companies, such as Karadeniz Holding from Turkey, to utilize electricity-generating barges. However, economic and logistical difficulties have limited the effectiveness of these measures.
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