A blaze at the Fuel Oil 2 Distributed Generation Site in Los Güiros, located in Guantánamo, has reignited concerns about the precarious state of Cuba's electrical system. The fire started in a control panel within a container, but thanks to the swift action of firefighters, it was extinguished before it could spread and cause more significant damage, according to Carlos Pérez, a user associated with the Cuban regime.
Despite local authorities confirming that there were no casualties or injuries, this incident highlights the critical condition of the country's energy infrastructure, which seems increasingly prone to catching fire or breaking down. The Guantánamo fire comes just days after another significant blaze affected the fuel oil generators at the Antonio Maceo (Renté) thermoelectric plant in Santiago de Cuba.
Described by the Electric Union as "large and painful," the Santiago de Cuba incident happened amid consecutive failures in units 3 and 5 of the plant, nearly incapacitating Renté's ability to contribute to the National Electric System (SEN). These events underscore the accumulated deterioration of facilities that have been in use for over 40 years, plagued by incomplete maintenance and a chronic shortage of spare parts. Every malfunction or fire exacerbates the blackouts that have become a daily reality for millions of Cubans.
The fire in Guantánamo not only adds pressure to a SEN already struggling with deficits exceeding 1,800 megawatts during peak hours but also fuels the everyday fears of Cubans. Many are left anxiously awaiting updates from the Electric Union, resigned to sweltering nights without fans, food spoiling in refrigerators, and the inability to plan life beyond the unpredictable power outages.
Impact of Power Outages on Cuban Daily Life
How does the fire in Guantánamo affect Cuba's electric system?
The fire in Guantánamo exacerbates the already critical state of Cuba's electric system, which suffers from deficits and frequent outages. It highlights the vulnerability and deterioration of the infrastructure.
What were the immediate consequences of the fire?
The fire was quickly contained by firefighters, preventing further damage. However, it raised alarms about the ongoing energy crisis and infrastructure issues in Cuba.
Why is the electric infrastructure in Cuba so vulnerable?
Cuba's electric infrastructure is vulnerable due to decades of use without adequate maintenance, a lack of spare parts, and the government's inability to invest in necessary upgrades.