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A fire at the Fuel Oil 2 Distributed Generation Site in Los Güiros, Guantánamo municipality, has raised alarms again regarding the fragile state of the Cuban electrical system.
The incident originated from a control panel inside a container, but thanks to the quick intervention of the firefighters, it was extinguished before it could spread and cause further damage, highlighted the profile of the internet user Carlos Pérez, linked to the Cuban government.
Although local authorities assured that there were no fatalities or injuries, the incident highlights the critical state of the country's energy infrastructure, which seems to catch fire or break down with increasingly alarming frequency.
The fire in Guantánamo occurs just days after another major incident impacted the fuel oil generators of the Antonio Maceo (Renté) thermoelectric plant in Santiago de Cuba.
This episode, described as "large and painful" by the Electric Union, occurred amidst consecutive failures in units 3 and 5 of the plant, which left Renté with virtually no stable capacity to contribute to the National Electric System (SEN).
Both incidents highlight the accumulated deterioration of facilities that have been in operation for over four decades, incomplete maintenance, and a chronic lack of spare parts. Each breakdown or fire worsens the blackouts that are already a routine part of life for millions of Cubans.
The fire in Guantánamo not only adds tension to an electrical grid that is already facing deficits exceeding 1,800 megawatts during peak hours; it also fuels the daily fears of Cubans, who remain anxious about the Union Eléctrica updates and resigned to nights of heat without fans, food spoiling, and the inability to plan their lives beyond power outages.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What has happened recently in the electric system of Guantánamo?
In Guantánamo, a fire occurred at the Fuel Oil 2 Distributed Generation Site which was quickly controlled by firefighters. This incident highlights the vulnerability of electrical infrastructure in Cuba, which experiences frequent failures and breakdowns.
What is the current status of the National Electric System (SEN) in Cuba?
The National Electric System (SEN) of Cuba faces a chronic deficit in generation capacity, with deficits exceeding 1,800 megawatts during peak hours. This situation has resulted in prolonged blackouts nationwide, severely impacting the daily lives of Cubans.
What structural issues contribute to the energy crisis in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba is due to technological obsolescence, poor maintenance, and a lack of spare parts. In addition, the fuel shortage worsens the situation, leaving numerous distributed generation plants inactive.
How does the energy crisis affect the daily life of Cubans?
The energy crisis severely affects the daily lives of Cubans, who face prolonged blackouts that disrupt access to basic services such as food refrigeration, the use of appliances, and lighting. This creates an atmosphere of desperation and social discontent.
What measures are being taken to improve the energy situation in Cuba?
Despite the promises from the Cuban government to improve the situation, the measures taken so far have been insufficient. Solar photovoltaic parks have been introduced, but their contribution does not compensate for the collapse of thermal power plants. Furthermore, structural issues and the lack of resources remain unresolved in the long term.
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