This Sunday, the Cuban Electric Union (UNE) issued a warning about ongoing power outages across Cuba, citing a shortfall in electricity generation of up to 1,605 megawatts (MW) during peak hours. The energy deficit could potentially reach 1,675 MW due to insufficient generation capacity and high consumption demand.
According to UNE's official update on their Facebook page, the power outages that began the previous day continued into early Sunday. On Saturday, the country experienced 24-hour power cuts, peaking at a 1,779 MW deficit at 8:40 p.m., which exceeded the planned figures.
Despite the contribution from 23 new photovoltaic solar parks, which delivered a total output of 2,892 MWh and peaked at providing 568 MW, this was not enough to meet Cuba's increasing energy needs. The demand is expected to reach 3,700 MW during the evening.
By 7:00 a.m., the National Electric System (SEN) had a mere 2,002 MW available, falling short of the 3,230 MW demand, resulting in 1,228 MW of unmet needs. A slight recovery of 100 MW is anticipated during peak consumption hours, but a significant shortfall will persist nonetheless.
The UNE also reported limitations in thermal generation, with 400 MW restricted and 789 MW offline due to fuel shortages affecting 87 distributed generation plants and five engines at the Regla power barge.
On Saturday, Cuba faced another intensified day of blackouts, surpassing a 1,600 MW electricity deficit, as reported by UNE. However, while much of the population endured their daily lives in darkness, the regime continued its rhetoric. Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz acknowledged the challenges of ending the blackouts, claiming that efforts are underway, although it's no easy task.
During the main speech of the July 26 event in Ciego de Ávila, Marrero emphasized the urgency of "reducing the bothersome blackouts that significantly impact the population, the economy, and the overall life of the country." He acknowledged that "it is not an easy task, but as we have explained, there is a program and a strategy in place aimed at gradually achieving service stability and energy sovereignty."
Nevertheless, the reality highlights the regime's failure to fulfill its promise of reducing blackouts during the summer, the hottest season of the year.
Cuba's Power Crisis: Key Questions Answered
What is causing the power outages in Cuba?
The power outages in Cuba are primarily due to a significant deficit in electricity generation, exacerbated by high demand and limited generation capacity.
How much energy do the new solar parks contribute?
The new solar parks contribute a total production of 2,892 MWh, with a peak delivery of 568 MW.
What efforts are being made to solve the power crisis?
Cuban authorities claim to be working on a program and strategy to gradually stabilize the electricity service and achieve energy sovereignty.