The severe energy crisis plaguing Cuba has forced the suspension of planned blackout rotations in Havana due to a shortfall in the National Electric System's (SEN) generation capacity. On Friday, the Havana Electric Company announced via its Telegram channel that the available generation capacity is insufficient to adhere to the scheduled power outage timetables, necessitating constant adjustments to the disruption hours.
"Currently, blocks 3 and 5 are affected by the deficit, while service is gradually being restored in block 2. Interruptions are expected to last an average of four hours, but after midnight, emergency outages could extend by an additional hour," the electric authorities specified through their official channels.
This Friday, the island's energy outlook worsened with one of the highest deficits recorded in recent years. According to the Electric Union (UNE), a deficit of 1,870 megawatts (MW) is anticipated during the evening peak hours, representing over 52% of the national demand, estimated at 3,570 MW.
From early morning, the situation was already critical. At 7:00 a.m., the available generation was only 1,390 MW compared to a demand exceeding 2,800 MW, leaving vast areas of the country without electrical service.
Widespread System Failures and Fuel Shortages
The UNE report outlines a series of failures in major thermoelectric plants, with five units out of service in Mariel, Nuevitas, Felton, and Renté. Additionally, three blocks in the Santa Cruz, Cienfuegos, and Renté plants remain under maintenance.
Compounding the situation is the chronic fuel shortage, which has left 98 distributed generation plants inactive, resulting in a loss of 573 MW, alongside 110 MW of fuel at Mariel and another 36 MW due to lack of oil in engines. In total, over 700 MW remain offline due to the scarcity of energy resources.
Limited Impact of Renewable Energy
Despite the commissioning of 18 new solar photovoltaic parks, their contribution remains limited amidst the thermal system's collapse. On Thursday, these installations produced just 1,220 MWh, with a peak capacity of 287 MW at noon.
Although the integration of some minor sources, such as unit 3 of Energás Varadero (30 MW), Mariel fuel (110 MW), unit 5 of Nuevitas (55 MW), and Moa fuel (115 MW), is anticipated, the gap between electricity supply and demand is expected to remain critical.
If the 1,870 MW deficit is confirmed, this Friday would mark the third worst day for power outages in recent years, only surpassed by the records of 1,901 MW in April and 1,880 MW last Saturday.
Meanwhile, the Cuban population continues to endure prolonged blackouts, with no effective alternatives to cope with the lack of electricity amid the high summer temperatures and the deterioration of basic services.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing the power generation shortfall in Cuba?
The power generation shortfall in Cuba is primarily due to failures in major thermoelectric plants, chronic fuel shortages, and insufficient generation capacity to meet the national demand.
How is the Cuban government addressing the energy crisis?
The Cuban government is attempting to address the crisis by integrating new power sources, such as solar parks and minor plant units, although these measures have yet to significantly reduce the deficit.
What impact do power outages have on the Cuban population?
Power outages severely impact daily life for the Cuban population, disrupting basic services, contributing to economic challenges, and exacerbating discomfort during high temperatures.