The ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel visited the Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant on Saturday —the most efficient single unit in the country— to “check” the recovery program of the National Electric System (SEN).
According to official media reports, the plant currently provides 226 MW, limited by a feed pump and high water consumption; they stated that the priority is to maintain generation until a "major" repair planned for December that will last for 180 days. After this process, the unit aims to generate 315 MW.
The visit is part of a tour of thermoelectric plants initiated by the regime's leader to assess, along with executives and workers, the "recovery of generation capacities" of the SEN.
"It is very inspiring to visit this emblematic thermoelectric plant, and to appreciate the commitment and responsibility of its workforce to restore the generation capacity of the plant and contribute to the necessary and urgent stabilization of the SEN," said the regime's representative, against a backdrop of critical energy challenges in the country.
Díaz-Canel insisted that capital maintenance is “unavoidable” and requested to “prepare it well, with quality,” while “recovering capacities” to lessen the impact of the upcoming shutdown for repairs.
During the dialogue at Guiteras, information was also provided about "support" measures for workers, such as salary increases, provision of food and hygiene products, specialized medical care, and other incentives for staff, with the aim of maintaining operations until the major intervention.
As part of the journey, Díaz-Canel had been the day before in Mariel and Santa Cruz del Norte. At the Máximo Gómez thermoelectric plant (Mariel), its director announced that this weekend unit 5 will be synchronized—currently under maintenance—to contribute 65 MW; machines 6 and 8 will undergo work in November and October, respectively, aiming to increase load (machine 6 is currently operating at 94 MW, and machine 8 will require transformer oil treatment).
Cuba enters another weekend marked by massive and uninterrupted blackouts, with a power generation deficit exceeding 1,800 megawatts (MW) this Saturday, according to the Electric Union (UNE).
In its official statement, the company acknowledged that the service was affected for 24 hours on Friday and extended into the early hours of Saturday.
For the night, consumption spikes; during that peak time, demand could reach 3,500 MW, while availability would barely reach 1,775 MW, resulting in a deficit of around 1,725 MW, and the impacts would extend up to 1,795 MW.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba and the Situation of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant
Why is the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant important for Cuba's electrical system?
The Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant is the largest single-unit power plant in Cuba and plays a crucial role in the country's electricity supply. Its nominal capacity exceeds 250 MW, making it a strategic component in alleviating the energy deficit. However, the plant has faced multiple technical issues that have impacted its operation and contributed to the fragility of the National Electric System.
What challenges does Cuba's National Electrical System (SEN) face?
The SEN faces critical challenges such as technological obsolescence, lack of investments, and frequent technical failures. The shortage of fuel and reliance on makeshift repairs exacerbate the situation, resulting in prolonged blackouts that affect millions of Cubans. The government has attempted to mitigate these issues with partial maintenance and the development of renewable energy, but without achieving sustainable stability.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has implemented measures such as capital maintenance in thermoelectric plants, salary increases, and benefits for workers, as well as promoting solar energy to improve the electricity supply. However, these actions have not guaranteed a structural solution to the energy collapse, and the population continues to experience significant blackouts.
How do blackouts affect the daily lives of Cubans?
Extended power outages seriously affect daily life in Cuba, causing food loss, damage to appliances, and leading to digital isolation. Interruptions in the electricity supply also hinder food preparation and access to basic services, increasing social discontent and frustration among the population.
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