The energy crisis in Cuba has taken a turn for the worse this Thursday as seven power generating units are offline due to breakdowns and maintenance needs. Coupled with severe fuel shortages, these issues have caused widespread blackouts affecting much of the nation. According to the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), at 7:00 a.m., the National Electric System (SEN) had an availability of 2,015 MW, while the demand surged to 3,000 MW, resulting in a shortfall of 1,002 MW and widespread power service interruptions. By midday, a deficit of 950 MW is anticipated.
A major incident includes a malfunction in Unit 2 of the Felton Thermoelectric Power Plant, while six other units are offline for maintenance: Unit 8 in Mariel, Unit 2 in Santa Cruz, Unit 4 in Cienfuegos, and Unit 5 in Renté. Additionally, thermal limitations have kept 432 MW out of the system.
The ongoing fuel shortage has also led to the shutdown of 79 distributed generation plants (598 MW) and 150 MW in the floating platform located in Asticar, totaling 748 MW affected for this reason.
Nighttime Power Outlook Raises Concerns
Although there's hope to recover 100 MW through engines that might receive fuel and the reactivation of 9 engines on the Asticar platform adding 150 MW, the UNE projects that availability will only reach 2,265 MW against a maximum projected demand of 3,680 MW, which implies a shortfall of 1,415 MW.
If this scenario continues, power outages could reach up to 1,485 MW throughout the night, with a high likelihood of an increased deficit. These frequent power cuts have a direct impact on the quality of life for Cubans, who struggle with preserving food, cooking, studying, and resting.
Moreover, the unstable power supply halts essential services such as transportation and telecommunications and slows down production processes in critical sectors of the national economy.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing the power outages in Cuba?
The power outages in Cuba are primarily caused by the shutdown of several power generating units due to breakdowns and maintenance, as well as severe fuel shortages.
How do power outages affect daily life in Cuba?
Frequent blackouts disrupt daily activities such as food preservation, cooking, studying, and resting, while also halting essential services like transportation and telecommunications.
What are the current power availability and demand levels in Cuba?
As of this morning, Cuba's power availability was 2,015 MW, with demand reaching 3,000 MW, resulting in a significant shortfall.