The Unit 1 of the Lidio Ramón Pérez Thermoelectric Power Plant, situated in Felton, was disconnected from the National Electric System on Saturday following a boiler leak, reported state journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso via his Facebook page. "Unit 1 of Felton's CTE exits the National Electric System due to boiler leak," he posted, without providing further details on the extent of the damage or the anticipated repair timeline.
This latest shutdown exacerbates Cuba's ongoing energy crisis, where aging power plants—most over 30 years old—suffer frequent breakdowns, disrupting the nation's electricity supply. An additional official report mentioned that the halted unit was undergoing "steam evacuation and cooling for area access," with specialists and technicians assessing the causes of the breakdown. Meanwhile, "top party and government officials in Mayarí" were en route to the site.
Despite repeated technical explanations and promises of recovery from authorities, Cubans endure daily power outages lasting up to 20 hours, particularly in the island's eastern and central regions. Frustration is palpable on social media, where citizens express their discontent with the endless cycle of failures and temporary fixes. "Relay race, one comes in and others go out... it's always like this," commented an angry user in response to Alonso's announcement.
The shutdown of Felton's Unit 1 once again highlights the structural vulnerability of the National Electric System. Just a month ago, the same plant was out of service due to a malfunction. Although authorities have announced investments in maintenance and floating power generation with Turkish ships, the measures fall short against the backdrop of accumulated deterioration.
On Good Friday, power outages affected half of the island, with an electricity deficit exceeding 1400 MW.
Cuba's Energy Crisis and Electrical System Vulnerability
What caused the shutdown of Felton's Unit 1?
The shutdown was caused by a boiler leak, leading to its disconnection from the National Electric System.
How does the current energy crisis affect Cuban citizens?
Cuban citizens face daily power outages that can last up to 20 hours, particularly in the eastern and central parts of the island.
What measures have been announced to address the energy crisis?
Authorities have announced investments in maintenance and floating power generation with Turkish ships, though these efforts have been insufficient.