In a move that dampens hopes for relief from frequent blackouts with the reactivation of the Guiteras thermoelectric plant, Cuba's Ministry of Energy and Mines announced the disconnection of the Turkish power barge stationed at Havana's port this Saturday. "Today, the 240 MW barge located in Havana will be disconnected for commercial reasons," stated the director of electricity at the Ministry of Energy and Mines. Official journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso noted on Facebook that steps are being taken to ensure this disconnection does not exacerbate the current levels of power disruption.
Even with the reentry of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant into the National Electric System (SEN), one of Cuba's most crucial energy blocks, power outages are expected to persist across the island without significant change. According to a report released on Saturday by the Electric Union (UNE), the nation experienced power disruptions during the entire previous day, with issues continuing into the early morning hours.
As of seven in the morning on Friday, the SEN's energy availability was a mere 1,895 MW against a demand of 3,245 MW, resulting in a capacity shortfall of 1,325 MW. During peak hours, the available power is projected to increase only slightly to 2,022 MW, while the peak demand is anticipated to reach 3,700 MW. This would cause a deficit of 1,674 MW and could potentially lead to disruptions totaling up to 1,744 MW, extending blackouts across the nation.
The Turkish power barge fleet has become a vital component in Cuba's electricity generation, especially as the country's thermoelectric plants continue to deteriorate. The Cuban government has turned to these agreements as a temporary measure to mitigate the energy deficit and the prolonged blackouts impacting residents. In May, the government had denied reports of the supposed withdrawal of the floating power plant Suheyla Sultan from Havana Bay, following claims by the independent news outlet 14ymedio that one of the barges might be leaving the country.
Impact of Turkish Power Barge Removal on Cuba's Energy Crisis
Why is the Turkish power barge being disconnected from Havana's port?
The Turkish power barge is being disconnected due to commercial reasons, as stated by the Ministry of Energy and Mines.
What impact will the disconnection of the power barge have on Cuba's energy supply?
Despite the return of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant, power outages are expected to remain largely unchanged across Cuba, with significant capacity deficits persisting.
How critical are Turkish power barges to Cuba's current electricity generation?
The Turkish power barges play a crucial role in generating electricity for Cuba, particularly due to the declining condition of the nation's thermoelectric plants.