The Electric Company in Cienfuegos announced on Friday that the region is experiencing nearly universal power outages. These disruptions are attributed to the concurrent maintenance of both units at the local "Carlos Manuel de Céspedes" thermoelectric plant and a severe fuel shortage impacting distributed generation.
During an appearance on the Perlavisión television station, industry leaders explained that the fuel scarcity has led to the shutdown of several distributed generation sites. This has resulted in significant national deficits and, consequently, widespread outages in the province.
"We are contributing to approximately 4% or 5% of the national deficit," officials stated, highlighting the necessity of maintaining the so-called "maximum outage" in Cienfuegos for several days. This approach means nearly the entire region is left without power, except for circuits supplying electricity to hospitals, the thermoelectric plant, and other critical facilities.
According to the officials, the province recently faced shortages of up to 80 megawatts, a figure they describe as "extreme," given that the normal maximum outage is 85 megawatts, including essential services. With an 80-megawatt deficit, almost all of Cienfuegos is left without electricity, with few exceptions.
"At an 80-megawatt deficit, only the four hospital circuits and the circuit supplying power to the thermoelectric plant remain active to ensure maintenance," they clarified.
This dire situation has also impacted circuits traditionally considered "uninterruptible," such as those serving sugar mills and collection centers, which have had to be disconnected during critical moments.
Authorities acknowledged that the situation prevents regular rotations of electrical service among municipalities, a major complaint from residents. This inability to alternate service availability results in continuous power disruptions for large areas without the chance for partial recovery throughout the day.
Finally, officials urged residents to contact them via phone at 43 51 83 35 to address concerns and ensure complaints are handled promptly. Meanwhile, Cienfuegos faces one of the most challenging energy scenarios in recent months, mirroring the deepening energy crisis affecting the entire country.
Understanding the Power Outage Crisis in Cienfuegos
What is causing the widespread power outages in Cienfuegos?
The power outages in Cienfuegos are primarily due to the maintenance of the "Carlos Manuel de Céspedes" thermoelectric plant and a severe fuel shortage affecting distributed generation.
How is the power deficit impacting essential services?
The power deficit has forced the province to maintain electricity only for essential services, such as hospitals and the thermoelectric plant, leaving most of Cienfuegos without power.
Are there any circuits that remain unaffected by the outages?
Only circuits supplying hospitals and the thermoelectric plant remain unaffected to ensure maintenance, while other traditionally stable circuits have been disconnected during critical periods.