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The energy crisis in Cuba shows no signs of relief: the National Electric System (SEN) reported that the country
In the official report from this Monday, it was detailed that, at dawn, the availability of the SEN was 1,632 MW against a demand of 2,617, resulting in more than 1,000 MW affected.
By noon, it was estimated that the number of customers without electricity due to a deficit would reach 1,300 MW, which highlights the seriousness of the current energy situation.
The situation is worsened by multiple breakdowns and maintenance issues at the country's main thermoelectric power plants.
Units one and two at Felton, unit eight at Mariel, and unit three at Renté are currently out of service due to technical failures.
Meanwhile, unit two of Santa Cruz and unit four of Carlos Manuel de Céspedes in Cienfuegos are undergoing maintenance.
Additionally, thermal limitations are keeping another 426 MW offline, contributing to the progressive collapse of the system.
The lack of fuel is also heavily impacting distributed generation.
According to the report, 39 power plants are out of service due to fuel shortages, resulting in a loss of 292 MW.
This situation is compounded by an additional 316 MW that cannot operate due to a lack of lubricants, raising the total unavailable energy due to this issue to 608 MW.
For the peak evening hours, authorities only anticipate a recovery of 100 MW, which would bring the availability to 1,732, compared to an estimated demand of 3,400 MW.
If these projections are realized, the deficit would reach 1,668 MW, which would result in an impact of up to 1,738 MW during that time.
Despite efforts to incorporate renewable sources into the system, the 32 new photovoltaic solar parks contributed only 2,033 MW hours on Sunday, with a maximum output of 322 MW at noon, a figure still insufficient given the overall collapse of the grid.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Electric Crisis in Cuba
What is the main cause of the electricity deficit in Cuba?
The main cause of the electrical deficit in Cuba is the combination of chronic breakdowns in thermal power plants, insufficient maintenance, and a shortage of fuel. The situation is exacerbated by an outdated electrical system and a lack of sustained investment in the energy sector.
How does the lack of fuel affect electricity generation in Cuba?
The lack of fuel is a critical factor that has left numerous distributed generation plants inactive, significantly reducing the electrical system's response capacity. Currently, the deficit due to the lack of fuel and lubricants reaches hundreds of MW, severely affecting electricity generation in the country.
What role do renewable energies play in the Cuban energy crisis?
Renewable energy, although promoted by the Cuban government, has yet to compensate for the deficit in electricity generation in the country. Photovoltaic solar parks, while they have increased their contribution, do not meet a significant portion of the national demand, leaving the population exposed to continuous blackouts.
What are the short-term prospects for the electricity crisis in Cuba?
The short-term outlook for the electric crisis in Cuba is disheartening. No immediate solution is in sight due to the lack of significant investments and the structural deterioration of the electrical system. The population continues to face prolonged blackouts, and no effective measures have been announced to reverse the situation.
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