The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) has firmly denied recent rumors regarding the alleged departure of the Turkish floating power station, Suheyla Sultan, from Havana Bay. In an official statement released through their channels, the state entity labeled the report about the supposed exit of one of the electricity-generating barges owned by the Turkish company Karadeniz Holding as "false."
"The information concerning the withdrawal of the Turkish Barge in Havana is inaccurate. The ship's arrival is part of the company's operations and it has reached its logistical base in the capital," stated the UNE. According to their clarification, the ship recently spotted and which sparked these rumors is not leaving the island, but rather engaging in internal operational movements by the company.
Official journalist Bernardo Espinosa also joined in the rebuttal, emphasizing on social media that the vessel observed belongs to Karadeniz's support fleet and has "arrived at its logistical base in Havana."
Independent news outlet 14ymedio had previously reported that one of the barges might be leaving the country amid growing concerns over the stability of Cuba's national electrical system and its energy contracts with foreign partners. However, CiberCuba was unable to verify this information.
The fleet of Turkish barges has become crucial for electricity generation in Cuba, especially given the deterioration of the country's thermoelectric plants. The Cuban government has resorted to these types of agreements as a temporary measure to address the energy deficit and prolonged blackouts affecting the population.
FAQs on Cuban Energy Crisis and Turkish Power Barges
Why are Turkish power barges important for Cuba?
The Turkish power barges are critical for Cuba because they provide much-needed electricity, especially after the country's thermoelectric plants have deteriorated, leading to energy shortages and blackouts.
What led to the rumors about the Turkish power station leaving Havana?
Rumors about the Turkish power station's departure were fueled by the sighting of one of the company's ships in Havana Bay, which was later clarified to be part of routine operational movements.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the energy deficit?
The Cuban government has engaged in temporary agreements with foreign companies, like Karadeniz Holding, to use floating power stations as a solution to mitigate energy shortages and reduce power outages.