Since its opening in 1989, the boiler at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant in Matanzas has not undergone a major overhaul. This neglect spans more than three decades, highlighting not only the persistent abandonment of this crucial infrastructure but also the regime's inability to maintain the country's largest power generating unit. Its aging condition is a key factor in its frequent breakdowns.
The issue came to light on Tuesday when state journalist José Miguel Solís reported on Facebook that the malfunction was detected earlier that morning, forcing the Antonio Guiteras power plant to once again disconnect from the National Electric System (SEN).
According to engineer Rubén Campos Olmos, the plant's general manager, the problem is situated within the boiler. A detailed technical inspection is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, after which repair work will commence. Solís noted that the faulty component is part of the significantly deteriorated high-temperature reheater pipes, which were supposed to be replaced during the long-overdue major maintenance.
Despite being the largest single unit in the country and vital for sustaining Cuba's fragile electricity generation capacity, the boiler has not received the necessary comprehensive intervention. Meanwhile, over 130 additional corrective tasks are underway, but the severity of the boiler's breakdown casts doubt on meeting deadlines.
The plant's shutdown on Tuesday occurred just four days after it had rejoined the SEN following a previous malfunction, causing public frustration. The Electric Union estimates a 96-hour shutdown, exacerbating an already severe blackout situation; the power deficit reached 1,992 MW on Tuesday before the plant's outage was announced.
Campos informed the local newspaper Girón, “The plant was disconnected from the SEN to fix a boiler leak, specifically in the high-temperature reheater. Alongside this, there are numerous other issues being addressed. We are currently cooling the boiler to begin necessary actions.”
Giselle Morejón Pérez, the principal planning and inspection specialist at UEB Maintenance, stated that during the four days of planned work, which coincide with the critical path, tasks will include cleaning the condenser, inspecting and cleaning circulation channels, repairing valves and lines, washing regenerative air heaters, and patching ducts.
The Guiteras plant has operated for years with makeshift repairs and forced shutdowns. The newly revealed information on Tuesday leaves no doubt: the plant's core has been running for over three decades without receiving the maintenance it desperately needs.
Understanding the Guiteras Power Plant Crisis
What is the main issue with the Antonio Guiteras power plant?
The primary issue is the lack of major maintenance on the boiler, which has not been overhauled since 1989. This neglect has led to frequent breakdowns, significantly impacting Cuba's electricity supply.
How long is the plant expected to be out of service?
The plant is expected to be out of service for approximately 96 hours to address the current issues, including a boiler leak, as well as other corrective tasks.
Why is the Guiteras plant important for Cuba?
The Guiteras plant is crucial as it is the largest single power generating unit in Cuba, playing a significant role in maintaining the country's electricity supply.