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The National Electric System (SEN) of Cuba is facing a critical generation deficit that will necessitate the implementation of scheduled blackouts across the country, according to a report from the Electric Union (UNE) in its notice published this Friday.
On Thursday, the electricity service was continuously interrupted for 24 hours, affecting the entire early morning today.
The highest impact recorded due to generation capacity deficit reached 1,724 megawatts (MW) at 8:20 PM, a figure that did not coincide with the peak demand hours but exceeded the planned limitations due to a higher-than-expected consumption.
This morning, the availability of the National Electric System (SEN) was 2,120 MW, while the demand rose to 3,230 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,180 MW. By noon, it is estimated that the impact will reach 1,300 MW.
During peak hours, the projected availability is 2,220 MW against a demand of 3,850 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,630 MW and a total impact of approximately 1,700 MW.
Among the issues affecting generation capacity, breakdowns have been reported in two units of the Renté and Felton thermal power plants.
At the same time, four units from the CTE Santa Cruz, Carlos Manuel de Céspedes (Cienfuegos), and Renté are under maintenance.
Additionally, thermal limitations render 456 MW out of service.
The SEN is also facing issues due to a lack of fuel, with 46 affected distributed generation plants totaling 246 MW out of operation.
During peak hours, an input of 100 MW is anticipated from distributed generation engines that are currently non-operational due to fuel shortages, which would only slightly alleviate the overall deficit.
The UNE detailed that the energy production from the 25 photovoltaic solar parks installed in the country reached 2,578 MWh, with a maximum output of 519 MW during peak hours, a figure that is insufficient to meet the growing demand.
The situation reflects the increasing vulnerability of the SEN, which is simultaneously facing technical failures, scheduled maintenance, thermal limitations, and fuel shortages, while electricity demand continues to exceed the available generation capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Power Outages in Cuba and the Energy Deficit
What is the main cause of the energy deficit in Cuba?
The energy deficit in Cuba is due to a combination of technical failures, scheduled maintenance, thermal limitations, and fuel shortages. Thermoelectric plants experience frequent breakdowns, and many units are out of service due to lack of maintenance. Furthermore, distributed generation is impacted by fuel shortages, which exacerbates the situation. The outdated infrastructure of Cuba's electrical system and insufficient investment in its modernization also contribute to the problem.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has implemented scheduled outages and prioritized electricity supply for essential services such as hospitals. However, these temporary measures have not been sufficient to resolve the energy deficit. Despite the introduction of renewable energy through solar parks, the contribution remains inadequate to meet demand. The lack of concrete actions to modernize electrical infrastructure and ensure a stable fuel supply continues to be a challenge.
How does the energy deficit affect the daily life of Cubans?
The energy deficit causes prolonged blackouts that severely affect the daily lives of Cubans. These power cuts interrupt essential activities such as cooking, using appliances, and storing food. In addition, they negatively impact commerce, production, and public services, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and discomfort among the population.
What is the forecast for the energy deficit in Cuba in the short term?
The outlook for the energy deficit in Cuba is discouraging, with no short-term solutions in sight. The situation remains critical, with a deficit exceeding 1,600 MW, necessitating scheduled blackouts across the country. The lack of effective actions and the reliance on an outdated electrical system complicate the possibility of improving supply in the near future.
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