Following one of the most significant deficits in the ongoing energy crisis, the Cuban government has once again promised that daytime blackouts will lessen, thanks to the introduction of new power-generating capacities and progress in the maintenance of several thermoelectric plants. During a press conference, Energy and Mines Minister Vicente de la O Levy acknowledged the "tense" situation of the electrical system, noting that on Tuesday, power outages exceeded 2,000 megawatts across the nation.
Despite this, he assured that improvements are expected with the synchronization of engines in Mariel and the anticipated addition of unit 1 of the Lidio Ramón Pérez thermoelectric plant, commonly referred to as Felton. However, many Cubans remain skeptical of such "promises." "Felton is expected to come online this weekend, which will positively change the situation. While blackouts won't be completely eliminated, we anticipate a significant reduction in daytime disruptions, thanks to contributions from this plant, Mariel, and solar parks. We aim to drop below 1,000 megawatts," the minister stated.
De la O Levy elaborated that recent issues worsened due to the unexpected shutdown of several stations, including Renté and October 10, alongside a malfunction in the seawater system at the Mariel Fuel site, which removed over 100 megawatts from the grid. According to him, the Mariel engines have been synchronized back into the system following repairs supported by the Ministry of Industries and the Union of Military Industries workshops.
The minister recounted an incident on Monday when a Nuevitas unit dropped out, causing severe fluctuations that risked the stability of the National Electric System (SEN). "To prevent a system collapse, quick action was taken to open circuits in Havana, the highest consumption area, until frequency was restored. A general blackout was avoided," claimed the minister, who described this as a "revolutionary achievement."
Efforts to Stabilize Cuba's Energy Supply
Regarding Felton, he noted that its maintenance, initially projected to last 20 days, is progressing swiftly and may conclude ahead of schedule. The integration of this unit is expected to reduce the generation capacity deficit, especially during peak demand times. Nevertheless, De la O Levy admitted that nighttime remains the most challenging period, as solar energy backup vanishes and demand peaks. "In summer, an impact of 1,700 megawatts can last for hours; in winter, the same figure can concentrate in minutes because demand rises and falls rapidly," he explained.
The minister emphasized that the country has a comprehensive investment plan in photovoltaic energy, with solar parks already providing over 600 megawatts of capacity. He stated that this capacity, combined with the recovery of thermal blocks, will partially ease the situation in the short term, though it won't end blackouts.
"We anticipate a significant reduction in daytime disruptions, but nighttime will continue to see high impacts. The situation remains tense, albeit with greater stability than in recent days," he concluded. Mass blackouts continue to plague the Cuban populace, leaving thousands of households in darkness for extended periods.
Widespread Skepticism Amidst Energy Promises
Despite official assurances, the energy landscape remains one of the most critical in recent years. In the midst of this crisis, the energy minister reiterated the prospects for an imminent improvement in the electrical system, promising that new generation capacities and thermoelectric maintenance would partially relieve the situation. However, these statements have fueled more skepticism than confidence among the public.
Recently, the minister himself acknowledged that without solar parks, the country would be in a worse position, highlighting the system's fragility and heavy reliance on renewable sources amid frequent thermal plant failures. Social tensions have also escalated, as demonstrated by a blackout in Cojímar that sparked a public protest, prompting authorities to deploy a security operation to manage the situation, reflecting growing public dissatisfaction with the lack of tangible solutions.
Simultaneously, the government admitted challenges in sustaining the rental of Turkish floating power plants, a key source of energy support in recent times. The inability to cover these international costs leaves the country even more vulnerable to prolonged blackouts.
FAQs on Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is the current state of the energy crisis in Cuba?
Cuba is experiencing a severe energy crisis with power outages exceeding 2,000 megawatts recently. The situation remains tense, with ongoing challenges in maintaining a stable electrical supply.
How are solar parks contributing to Cuba's energy supply?
Solar parks in Cuba are providing over 600 megawatts of capacity, helping to alleviate some pressure on the electrical system. However, they are not sufficient to completely resolve the crisis, especially during nighttime.
What measures are being taken to improve the energy situation in Cuba?
The Cuban government is working on synchronizing engines, incorporating new thermoelectric units, and investing in solar energy to stabilize the energy supply. However, skepticism remains among the populace.