In a move that starkly contrasts with its recent pledge to "bolster" electricity supply in Eastern Cuba, the Unión Eléctrica (UNE) declared on Monday that it would preemptively disconnect circuits and three critical thermoelectric plants due to the imminent arrival of Hurricane Melissa. The hurricane approaches the island with fierce winds of 260 km/h, classified as a Category 5 on the Saffir-Simpson scale.
The state-run company announced via Facebook that areas experiencing winds exceeding 60 km/h would be disconnected from the National Electric System (SEN) as part of a "controlled" procedure to protect the network's integrity.
"We will disconnect the circuits and thermoelectric plants Antonio Maceo (Renté), Lidio Ramón Pérez (Felton), and the Moa Fuel Plant due to their geographic location," the UNE stated.
These three plants, situated in Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and Moa, are vital for providing electricity in the eastern region. This decision means that the area most threatened by the hurricane will be left largely without power in the coming hours.
This announcement comes just a day after the UNE had assured that it would "prioritize" electricity generation in the east to aid residents in preparing for the cyclone's impact.
However, the reality has been quite different: residents in Granma, Holguín, and Santiago de Cuba have reported power outages lasting over 20 hours, criticizing the stark disconnect between official statements and on-the-ground realities.
"Where is that priority? We've been without power since midnight," commented a Bayamo resident. "It seems Holguín is no longer part of the east," another user quipped sarcastically.
Meanwhile, Civil Defense continues to maintain the Cyclonic Alarm Phase in Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, Granma, Las Tunas, and Camagüey as Melissa approaches, bringing torrential rains and dangerous storm surges.
With a collapsed electrical system, disconnected plants, and thousands of homes left in the dark, Cuba faces Hurricane Melissa amid one of the most critical moments of its ongoing energy crisis.
Understanding the Impact of Hurricane Melissa on Cuba's Power Supply
Why did the Unión Eléctrica disconnect power plants in Eastern Cuba?
The Unión Eléctrica disconnected power plants to protect the integrity of the National Electric System from the high winds of Hurricane Melissa, which could cause significant damage.
Which areas in Cuba are most affected by the power plant shutdowns?
The regions most affected include Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and Moa, as these are the locations of the key thermoelectric plants that were shut down.
What was the public's reaction to the power outages in Eastern Cuba?
Residents expressed frustration on social media, noting the discrepancy between the government's promises and the prolonged power outages they experienced.