This past Wednesday, the National Electrical System (SEN) experienced an unprecedented shortfall in power generation, reaching a deficit of 1,901 megawatts (MW) during the peak hours of 8:10 p.m. State media journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso reported that this marks the most significant deficit in recent years, based on the daily report from the National Electric Union (UNE). He attributed this critical situation to "fuel shortages," which severely impact electricity generation.
The official UNE report highlights how the situation exceeded planned expectations due to fuel limitations, particularly affecting the Melones barge, a crucial facility for distributed generation. This is compounded by numerous breakdowns, scheduled maintenance at thermoelectric plants, and a concerning lack of investment in energy infrastructure.
Cuban Citizens Criticize the Government
"Those of us living in rural areas know too well... We live in perpetual darkness," lamented a citizen on social media. Another individual suggested that the government is "hoarding fuel for May Day activities." One online user expressed frustration, stating, "This is disrespectful. If they knew there was a fuel limitation at that plant, why plan for such a low deficit? No one here is a fool. Just look at how they plan their lies."
Despite the dire situation, some Cubans resorted to dark humor: "It's great we're breaking a record. What a joy it is to live in this country!" In many regions, power outages have lasted over 20 hours daily for months, severely affecting the quality of life and halting the national economy. This is a long-standing issue, and the government seems unable to find solutions in the short, medium, or long term.
Is Solar Energy a Beacon of Hope?
The regime is turning to solar energy to address Cuba's energy crisis, yet the UNE only generated 1,064 MWh from the eight new photovoltaic solar parks. These solar advancements are insufficient to compensate for the stagnation of thermoelectric plants, which have been neglected by the government for years, resulting in a collapsed grid and prolonged maintenance. The growing reliance on diesel, which is no longer arriving, exacerbates the issue. The official narrative appears exhausted in the face of a population demanding concrete solutions rather than excuses. The widespread perception is that the current energy model is in shambles, and neither the state nor its spokespersons offer convincing answers.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What caused the recent record deficit in Cuba's electricity generation?
The recent record deficit in electricity generation was primarily caused by fuel shortages, breakdowns, and scheduled maintenance at thermoelectric plants, exacerbated by a lack of investment in energy infrastructure.
How are Cubans reacting to the power outages?
Cubans are expressing frustration and criticism towards the government for the ongoing power outages, with some resorting to dark humor to cope with the situation, while others highlight the severe impact on their daily lives and the economy.
Is solar energy a viable solution for Cuba's energy problems?
While the regime is investing in solar energy, the advancements are currently insufficient to resolve the energy crisis, as the output from new solar parks does not compensate for the lack of investment in other energy infrastructures.