The National Electric System (SEN) in Cuba experienced a significant power shortfall on Friday, reaching a maximum deficit of 1,917 MW. This Saturday presents a similar challenge, with expectations of a shortfall reaching up to 1,915 MW during peak hours.
According to the daily update from the Electric Union (UNE), the service was continuously disrupted on Friday, peaking at a deficit of 1,917 MW at 6:30 PM due to insufficient generation capacity.
Despite the addition of 33 new solar power plants, which produced 2,452 MWh and reached a peak output of 515 MW by noon, this contribution was insufficient to offset the loss of several thermal units and the ongoing fuel shortage.
As of 6:00 AM on Saturday, SEN's available capacity was 1,565 MW, while the demand reached 2,324 MW, resulting in an immediate shortfall of 796 MW.
By mid-morning, it was projected that the shortfall might approach 900 MW.
Significant issues include breakdowns in units 5 and 8 of the Máximo Gómez Thermoelectric Plant (Mariel) and unit 2 of the Felton Plant (Mayarí). Additionally, scheduled maintenance is ongoing for units 2 and 3 of the Santa Cruz del Norte Plant and unit 4 of the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Plant in Cienfuegos.
Thermal generation limitations have also kept 548 MW offline.
Fuel scarcity remains a critical issue, with 106 distributed generation plants, totaling 913 MW, unavailable. Additionally, 80 MW are offline due to a lack of lubricants, bringing the total capacity affected by fuel issues to 993 MW.
For the evening peak, UNE forecasts availability of 1,565 MW against a projected maximum demand of 3,450 MW, leading to a potential deficit of 1,885 MW and an estimated impact of up to 1,915 MW, assuming current conditions persist.
The primary cause of Cuba's electrical deficit is the ongoing fuel shortage and the outdated state of the country's thermoelectric power plants. Scheduled maintenance and breakdowns across various power stations have exacerbated the critical situation for the SEN.
Extended blackouts severely disrupt daily life for Cubans, hindering food refrigeration, appliance use, and basic activities like cooking and home ventilation, especially in the island's warm climate.
This situation fuels growing public discontent due to the government's failure to provide effective solutions.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing the power deficit in Cuba?
The main causes of the power deficit in Cuba are fuel shortages and the outdated condition of thermoelectric power plants. Breakdowns and scheduled maintenance have also contributed to this critical situation.
How are power outages affecting daily life in Cuba?
Power outages are severely affecting daily life by preventing food refrigeration, limiting the use of appliances, and hindering basic activities such as cooking and home ventilation, particularly in the island's hot climate.