The National Electric System (SEN) of Cuba faced a critical situation this Friday, August 8, with a capacity deficit of 1,329 megawatts (MW) at 6:00 AM, according to the Electric Union (UNE).
The demand at that time was 3,150 MW, while availability barely reached 1,890 MW, forcing the implementation of power outages since early morning.
The previous day, the impacts lasted for 24 hours, with a maximum of 1,819 MW recorded at 21:40, coinciding with the peak consumption period. This figure exceeded expectations due to the non-operation of unit 6 of the Nuevitas Thermal Power Plant (CTE) during peak hour.
The UNE highlighted that the 25 new photovoltaic solar parks delivered 2,450 megawatt-hours (MWh) to the SEN, reaching a peak power of 472 MW during noon hours. However, this contribution was insufficient to meet the demand.
Among the units out of service due to malfunction are unit 1 of the Santa Cruz CTE, unit 5 of the Nuevitas CTE, unit 2 of the Felton CTE, and unit 6 of the Renté CTE.
Units 2 of the Santa Cruz Thermoelectric Plant, 4 of the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Thermoelectric Plant in Cienfuegos, and 5 of the Renté Thermoelectric Plant are under maintenance. Technical limitations in thermal generation amount to 343 MW.
This situation is compounded by 58 distributed generation plants out of service due to lack of fuel, with a total capacity of 429 MW.
For the peak hours this Friday, the UNE anticipates the addition of unit 1 from the CTE Santa Cruz (60 MW), unit 6 from the CTE Renté (50 MW), and the recovery of 100 MW from distributed generation engines. The estimated availability would be 2,040 MW against a maximum demand of 3,700 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,660 MW and anticipated impacts of 1,730 MW.
In the case of Havana, the electricity service was interrupted for 24 hours on Thursday, with a maximum impact of 110 MW at 9:40 PM. The supply was restored at 1:51 AM this Friday. Although a outage was scheduled between 10:00 AM and 2:30 PM, authorities insist that "it was not necessary to implement it," and the planned interruptions for the early morning were also not carried out, which depended on the conditions of the SEN.
Frequently Asked Questions about Blackouts in Cuba and the Electric Deficit
What is the main cause of the massive blackouts in Cuba?
The main cause of blackouts in Cuba is the deficit in electricity generation, which has exceeded 1,700 MW on several occasions. This deficit is due to breakdowns in thermal power plants, scheduled maintenance in other units, and the shortage of fuel affecting distributed generation. Additionally, the outdated electrical infrastructure and lack of investment worsen the situation.
What measures is the Electric Union taking to address the energy deficit?
The Electric Union of Cuba (UNE) has implemented scheduled power outages to try to mitigate the impact of the energy deficit on the population. Units of generation under maintenance are also being brought online, and efforts are being made to increase distributed generation capacity. However, these measures have not been sufficient to effectively resolve the energy crisis.
How do blackouts affect the Cuban population?
Extended power outages severely impact the daily lives of the Cuban population, affecting essential activities such as cooking, using appliances, preserving food, and accessing water. The uncertainty surrounding the duration of this crisis and the lack of effective solutions from the authorities have led to growing discontent among citizens.
What has been the role of renewable energy in Cuba's electricity crisis?
Despite the incorporation of photovoltaic solar parks, the contribution of renewable energies has been insufficient to cover Cuba's energy deficit. Solar installations have provided megawatt hours to the National Electric System, but their current capacity is unable to meet the high demand or compensate for the shortcomings in thermal generation.
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