Manuel Marrero Cruz, the Cuban Prime Minister, recently visited the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant in Matanzas, where he hailed the dedication of the workers, deeming it "a model for all workplaces" in Cuba. However, locals expressed skepticism, pointing out that his visit coincided conveniently with the temporary restoration of electricity, masking the persistent energy crisis.
Accompanied by Vicente de la O Levy, the Minister of Energy and Mines, Marrero inquired about the upcoming major maintenance preparations at the Guiteras plant, though no specific date was provided, as reported by the official newspaper Girón on Facebook. The plant currently generates 220 megawatts but faces numerous technical challenges, including feed pump failures and excessive consumption of replacement water, necessitating frequent shutdowns and keeping the plant in a precarious state.
Rubén Campos Olmo, the plant's director, explained that one of the feed pumps is under repair and is expected to be operational by next Monday. Its absence means the plant can only operate at half capacity if the remaining pumps fail. Additionally, a new oil reserve pump for turbine valves is expected to arrive on September 4th, with another pump being assembled after inspection in the Cienfuegos refinery.
Campos also highlighted that the plant's high consumption of 43 cubic meters of replacement water requires attention. This will necessitate halting the unit to repair the high-temperature reheater, though the leak remains stable. Plans are also underway to install a demineralized water plant, as international norms suggest that such facilities should use seawater instead of potable water.
Challenges and Local Frustrations
During discussions, Marrero acknowledged the plant's advanced age and numerous unresolved issues due to a lack of resources for essential repairs and maintenance. Despite these hurdles, he emphasized the need to keep the Guiteras operational because of its significance to the country. Meanwhile, social media buzzed with comments criticizing the political maneuvering behind these official visits.
Matanzas residents noted that electricity returned just as the Prime Minister arrived, following nearly two days of widespread blackouts. "It's like magic — we suddenly get five hours of electricity," one user quipped sarcastically. Other locals lamented that while Matanzas endures power cuts exceeding 20 hours, Havana is prioritized in the power distribution. "The Guiteras is here, but it serves Havana, offering no benefit to our province," a resident complained, criticizing the portrayal of the plant as a source of pride while surrounding communities remain in the dark.
The discontent is fueled by what many describe as a cycle of "expensive patches and broken promises." Despite announcements of major maintenance, the outages persist and may even worsen. "With Guiteras running, we have 20-hour blackouts. When it's down for maintenance, it'll be 24," remarked a reader.
Call for Real Solutions
The general sentiment is that the energy crisis is only deepening in the absence of practical solutions. "They need to build new power plants, not just put lipstick on ruins," another user demanded, capturing the frustration of a nation struggling with power outages, shortages, and a government that touts achievements that many view as failures.
In Cuba, blackouts won't be solved with speeches or staged visits; they require real solutions, which have yet to materialize. The Guiteras plant, with a nominal capacity of 220 MW, is the largest single-unit power generator in the country. However, its main boiler hasn't undergone major maintenance since its inauguration in 1989, making it highly susceptible to breakdowns.
The plant finally reconnected to the National Electric System at midnight on Friday, August 1st, following a cautious and uncertain start-up process. In the streets and on social media, Cubans' frustration grows over frequent blackouts, lack of transparency, and a sense that the entire energy system hangs by a rusty thread.
Addressing Cuba's Energy Challenges
What are the major issues facing the Guiteras power plant?
The Guiteras power plant struggles with technical problems, including feed pump failures, excessive consumption of replacement water, and an outdated infrastructure that hasn't received major maintenance since its opening in 1989.
Why are Matanzas residents frustrated with the power situation?
Residents in Matanzas are frustrated because they experience prolonged power cuts exceeding 20 hours, while other regions, particularly Havana, are given priority in power distribution. They perceive political manipulation in the timing of electricity restoration during official visits.
What solutions do locals propose for Cuba's energy crisis?
Locals suggest that Cuba should invest in building new power plants rather than continuing to patch up the existing, outdated infrastructure. They believe real, sustainable solutions are necessary to resolve the ongoing energy crisis.