The energy crisis in Cuba is worsening, as the country grapples with an electric power deficit exceeding 1,600 megawatts (MW), according to a report released this Wednesday by the Cuban Electrical Union (UNE). The previous day saw electricity services disrupted for the entire 24-hour period, with outages continuing throughout the early hours of today.
The most significant shortfall occurred at 10:00 pm, coinciding with the peak demand period, when the deficit hit 1,655 MW. By 7:00 am, the availability of the National Electric System (SEN) was at 1,785 MW, while the demand reached 2,940 MW, resulting in a shortage of 1,203 MW at that time. A slight improvement is anticipated by midday, with an expected impact of 1,180 MW.
However, the outlook for the evening peak hours remains dire. During this period, the introduction of Unit 5 at Mariel contributing 65 MW and the recovery of 80 MW in distributed generation engines currently offline due to fuel shortages are expected. UNE forecasts an availability of merely 1,930 MW against an estimated demand of 3,500 MW, leading to a deficit of 1,570 MW and a real impact reaching up to 1,640 MW.
Key Incidents Affecting Power Supply
Several units are currently out of operation due to breakdowns at Mariel, Nuevitas, and Felton power plants. Maintenance activities are underway on Unit 5 of Mariel, Unit 2 of Santa Cruz, Unit 4 of Cienfuegos, Unit 6 of Diez de Octubre, and Unit 5 of Renté power plants. Thermal restrictions have resulted in 298 MW being offline.
Fuel shortages have further compounded the issues, with 568 MW affected across 70 distributed generation plants (493 MW) and an additional 75 MW due to lack of oil in distributed generation engines. In terms of renewable energy, the country's 16 solar photovoltaic parks delivered a total of 1,374 megawatt-hours (MWh) on Tuesday, reaching a peak output of 386 MW at midday. Despite this contribution, it is insufficient to offset the system's deficiencies.
Impact on Daily Life in Havana
The Havana Electric Company has released a schedule detailing the planned outages by municipality, outlining the expected interruptions in the capital. On Sunday, the following blocks of the city will experience power cuts:
- 10:00 am to 2:00 pm: Block #3
- 11:00 am to 3:00 pm: Block #4
- 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm: Block #5
- 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm: Block #1
- 8:00 pm to 12:00 pm: Block #2
This scenario underscores the ongoing deterioration of the country's energy infrastructure, which is plagued by technical failures, limited generation capacity, and a growing demand that remains unmet, severely impacting the everyday lives of Cubans.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Challenges
What is the current electric power deficit in Cuba?
Cuba is currently facing an electric power deficit of over 1,600 megawatts (MW).
Which power plants are affected by breakdowns?
Breakdowns have been reported at the Mariel, Nuevitas, and Felton power plants.
How is renewable energy contributing to Cuba's power supply?
Sixteen solar photovoltaic parks in Cuba contributed a total of 1,374 megawatt-hours (MWh) on Tuesday, with a peak of 386 MW delivered at midday.
What are the main issues affecting Cuba's energy infrastructure?
Cuba's energy infrastructure is challenged by technical failures, insufficient generation capacity, and increasing demand that cannot be met.