The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) has reported that on the previous day, the nation endured continuous power outages, with peak disruptions reaching 1,790 megawatts (MW) at 6:30 p.m., due to insufficient power generation capacity.
As of 6:00 a.m. on Friday, the National Electric System (SEN) had an availability of 1,605 MW, while demand soared to 2,480 MW, resulting in a shortfall of 816 MW. The UNE anticipates a worsening scenario during the nighttime peak hours, projecting a deficit of 1,535 MW, potentially impacting up to 1,605 MW if current conditions persist.
Generating Plants Out of Service and Fuel Shortages
The Felton thermoelectric plant's unit 2 and the Renté plant's unit 6 remain out of operation due to malfunctions, while two other units—Santa Cruz del Norte's unit 2 and Cienfuegos' unit 4—are undergoing scheduled maintenance.
Thermal generation limitations have reached 528 MW, exacerbated by fuel shortages that have left 93 distributed generation plants inactive. Additionally, there is a shortfall of 60 MW at the Mariel Fuel Oil plant and 75 MW due to a lack of lubricants, totaling 925 MW of unavailable capacity.
Even with plans to activate five engines at the Mariel site, contributing an additional 60 MW, this will do little to address the massive energy deficit.
Renewable Energy Efforts Insufficient
The UNE highlighted that the 32 new solar photovoltaic parks generated 2,739 MWh throughout the day, with a peak output of 486 MW. However, renewable production remains inadequate to meet the rising national demand and to compensate for the instability of thermal and distributed power plants.
Havana Faces Extended Outages
Havana's Electric Company reported the capital suffered power outages for up to 22 hours on Thursday. The peak disruption reached 294 MW at 6:00 p.m., and although service was restored around midnight, there were still 100 MW of emergency power reported in the afternoon.
No outages due to deficits were recorded early Friday, but residents fear a return to deteriorating conditions with the increase in nighttime consumption.
The collapse of Cuba's electrical system underscores the severe structural crisis the country faces, characterized by neglected maintenance, fuel shortages, and reliance on outdated plants. While the regime attempts to showcase progress with renewable energy, the grim reality for millions of Cubans includes daily blackouts, cold kitchens, and sleepless nights tormented by mosquitoes.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing the power shortages in Cuba?
The power shortages in Cuba are primarily caused by a combination of insufficient maintenance, fuel shortages, and reliance on outdated power plants, leading to frequent outages and electricity deficits.
How is the Cuban government addressing the energy crisis?
The Cuban government is attempting to address the energy crisis by promoting renewable energy projects, such as solar photovoltaic parks, but the efforts have so far been insufficient to meet the country's energy demands.
What impact do the power outages have on daily life in Cuba?
The power outages severely affect daily life in Cuba, resulting in cold meals, disrupted daily activities, and sleepless nights without electrical appliances like fans, exacerbating discomfort from the tropical climate.