The Electric Union (UNE) reported this Saturday that the National Electric System (SEN) is facing a critical generation deficit that will reach 1,675 MW during peak hours, signaling another day of widespread blackouts across the country.
The UNE explained in a statement that in the best-case scenario, availability during peak hours would barely reach 2,195 MW, compared to an estimated demand of 3,800 MW.
The result would be a deficit of 1,605 MW, with a total impact on users of 1,675 MW, which will prolong outages across much of the national territory throughout the day.
According to the official statement, the service was still affected in the early hours of August 16 following a Friday where power outages lasted for 24 hours.
The peak impact on the eve was 1,788 MW at 8:40 PM, a level exceeding the plan, due to demand being higher than anticipated.
The SEN currently has an availability of 2,135 MW, compared to a demand of 3,527 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,150 MW, the entity reported.
Regarding renewable generation, it was stated that the 25 operational photovoltaic solar parks contributed 2,589 MWh on Friday, with a peak delivery of 552 MW during midday hours.
Units 8 of the Mariel CTE, 5 of the Nuevitas CTE, 3 of the Renté CTE, and 2 of the Felton CTE are out of service.
In addition, Unit 2 of the Santa Cruz Thermal Power Plant, Unit 4 of the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Thermal Power Plant (Cienfuegos), and Unit 5 of the Renté Thermal Power Plant are currently undergoing maintenance.
There are also 56 halted distributed generation plants, with a total of 367 MW, due to a lack of fuel.
Citizens can no longer find solace in the blackouts.
"Inhumanity at its peak, Boca de Camarioca experienced 22 hours of continuous blackouts again; we spent 4 days in a blackout program that seemed to be due to some inspection. There’s nowhere to turn or complain, we are at the mercy of no one," commented an internet user in response to the UNE's post.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Electrical Crisis in Cuba
What is the main cause of blackouts in Cuba?
The main cause of blackouts in Cuba is the critical deficit in electricity generation in the National Electric System (SEN). This deficit is exacerbated by breakdowns in several generation units, scheduled maintenance, and the lack of fuel that renders numerous distributed generation plants inoperable. The aging electrical infrastructure and dependence on fossil fuels also contribute to the problem.
What is the current electricity generation deficit in Cuba?
The current electricity generation deficit in Cuba reaches 1,675 MW during peak hours. This means that the demand for electricity far exceeds the available generation capacity, leading to widespread blackouts across the country.
What measures are being taken to address the energy crisis in Cuba?
The Cuban government has attempted to mitigate the energy crisis by incorporating photovoltaic solar parks, but their contribution is insufficient to cover the deficit. Additionally, maintenance has been planned for thermal power units, and the public has been urged to use energy rationally. However, these measures have not resolved the structural problem, and the situation remains critical.
How do power outages affect the daily lives of Cubans?
Power outages severely affect the daily lives of Cubans, forcing them to reorganize their daily routines around the inconsistency of electrical service. The lack of electricity impacts essential activities such as food refrigeration, the use of appliances, lighting, and air conditioning, particularly problematic in a hot climate. This worsens the already challenging economic and social situation in the country.
Filed under: