The first unit of the "Lidio Ramón Pérez" Thermoelectric Power Plant, commonly referred to as Felton due to its location in the homonymous town in eastern Cuba, has begun a shutdown process for maintenance on its boiler, specifically targeting the regenerative air heaters. These maintenance activities are expected to last approximately 36 hours, as announced by Emilio Rodríguez Pupo on his Facebook profile.
This energy unit's temporary shutdown occurs at a particularly critical juncture for the national electrical system, already grappling with a significant imbalance between supply and demand. The Electric Union of Cuba (UNE) forecasts a peak period strain on July 8, estimating a maximum impact of 1,530 megawatts (MW), given that the projected availability is 2,090 MW against a potential demand of 3,550 MW.
On Tuesday morning, system availability was recorded at 1,940 MW, while demand stood at 2,900 MW, resulting in a real-time shortfall of 988 MW. By midday, the UNE anticipates an increase in power outages, estimating an impact of 1,050 MW.
The previous day saw the highest recorded impact at 1,473 MW at 8:00 PM, although it did not coincide with the peak demand period. Amidst this energy crisis, the country's 18 photovoltaic solar parks produced 2,140 megawatt hours (MWh), peaking at 430 MW delivered during midday.
The temporary removal of Felton Unit One further exacerbates the already precarious state of Cuba's electro-energy system, which remains under severe pressure due to infrastructure deterioration, fuel shortages, and limited renewable generation capacity.
Impact of Felton Unit Maintenance on Cuba's Energy Supply
Why is Felton Unit One undergoing maintenance?
Felton Unit One is undergoing maintenance specifically on its boiler's regenerative air heaters to ensure the unit operates efficiently and safely.
How long will the maintenance of Felton Unit One last?
The maintenance is expected to last approximately 36 hours.
What are the current challenges facing Cuba's electrical system?
Cuba's electrical system is challenged by infrastructure deterioration, fuel shortages, and a limited capacity for renewable energy generation.