The Cuban power grid is experiencing one of its most challenging end-of-year periods, with widespread outages occurring throughout the day on Monday, December 22. According to the state-run Unión Eléctrica (UNE), the shortfall has surpassed 1,900 megawatts (MW) as of Tuesday.
The state entity reported that the highest level of disruption was recorded at 1,984 MW at 6:20 PM yesterday. This morning, the National Electric System's (SEN) available capacity is barely reaching 1,424 MW, while the demand is at 2,326 MW.
This situation results in more than 940 MW of demand going unmet due to insufficient generation capacity.
Key Plants Hampered by Faults and Maintenance
Significant issues include malfunctions in units 5 and 6 at the Antonio Maceo Thermoelectric Plant, unit 5 at the Mariel Thermoelectric Plant, and unit 2 at the Felton Thermoelectric Plant.
Furthermore, maintenance activities continue on unit 6 at the Mariel Plant, unit 2 at the Santa Cruz Plant, and unit 4 at the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Plant in Cienfuegos.
In total, 504 MW remain offline due to limitations in thermal generation, exacerbating the already fragile state of the system.
Fuel and Lubricant Shortages Worsen the Crisis
The UNE report also acknowledges severe issues arising from fuel shortages, impacting 94 distributed generation plants with a combined capacity of 866 MW. Additionally, the Moa Fuel Plant is down by 108 MW, and another 140 MW is unavailable due to lubricant shortages.
Overall, 1,114 MW are out of service for these reasons.
The state company plans to bring unit 6 of the Renté Plant online, adding just 45 MW during peak hours—a figure that falls short compared to a projected peak demand of 3,400 MW.
If current conditions persist, the UNE forecasts a shortfall of 1,931 MW and a total disruption of up to 1,961 MW on the night of Christmas Eve.
While the government continues to speak of "energy recovery," the reality points to a systemic crisis in the national electric grid, characterized by years of mismanagement, outdated technology, and reliance on imported fossil fuels.
Citizens are bracing themselves for yet another day of extended power outages, with no clear end in sight.
Understanding Cuba's Power Crisis
What is causing the current power shortfall in Cuba?
The power shortfall in Cuba is primarily due to a combination of plant malfunctions, maintenance issues, and shortages of fuel and lubricants.
How does the government plan to address the power crisis?
The government aims to address the crisis by incorporating additional units during peak hours, but these measures are insufficient to meet the current demand.
What impact does the power crisis have on Cuban citizens?
Cuban citizens are experiencing prolonged power outages, affecting their daily activities and quality of life, especially during the holiday season.