This Monday, Cuba's electrical system is once again on the brink of a widespread collapse. Prolonged power outages have been reported across the nation, with the official update from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE) indicating disruptions exceeding 1,900 megawatts (MW) during peak hours.
The Havana Electric Company confirmed that the capital was plunged into darkness starting at 6:39 p.m. on Sunday. The city faced a significant disruption of 359 MW at 6:20 p.m., which halted five out of six distribution networks.
Complete restoration of power was achieved shortly after 12:06 a.m. on Monday, following over six hours of continuous blackout.
On social media, the company admitted that it "was not possible to adhere to the scheduled plan" due to the low availability of base generation, leading to an additional emergency disruption of 100 MW.
Although there were no active outages at the time of their report, they warned that if the availability of the National Electric System (SEN) does not improve, unplanned outages might occur again, affecting blocks and circuits "due to emergencies."
According to Monday's national report, the SEN had an availability of 1,360 MW against a demand of 2,150 MW, resulting in an initial deficit of 750 MW that progressively increased.
During peak hours, an impact of 1,905 MW is anticipated, stemming from failures at the thermoelectric plants in Mariel, Felton, Antonio Maceo, and Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, as well as a fuel shortage that has kept more than 100 distributed plants offline.
The Havana Electric Company's schedule anticipates staggered outages from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. on Monday, affecting all blocks of the capital. However, the company cautions that times may vary due to new breakdowns.
Meanwhile, the country's 38 solar photovoltaic parks contributed 473 MW at their peak, but their input fails to offset the decline in thermal generation and the diesel shortage.
The collapse of the SEN highlights the worsening energy crisis that has plagued Cuba since the capture of Nicolás Maduro and the end of Venezuelan oil supplies. With outdated plants, fuel shortages, and rising demand, Cuba faces an unprecedented electrical crisis not seen since the "Special Period."
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing the frequent power outages in Cuba?
The power outages in Cuba are primarily due to outdated power plants, fuel shortages, and increased demand, further exacerbated by the loss of Venezuelan oil supplies.
How long did the recent blackout in Havana last?
The recent blackout in Havana lasted more than six hours, beginning at 6:39 p.m. and concluding after 12:06 a.m. the following day.
What are the repercussions of the energy crisis on Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba has led to widespread power outages, disruption of daily life, and challenges in maintaining essential services, contributing to the country's broader economic and social difficulties.