The Electric Union (UNE) announced on Monday that Cuba experienced continuous power outages throughout Sunday, with a peak shortage of 1,764 megawatts (MW) at 6:10 PM, causing widespread blackouts across the nation.
As per the official report, the situation of the National Electric System (SEN) remains dire. By 6 AM on January 20, available power was a mere 1,180 MW against a demand of 2,100 MW, resulting in a shortfall of 879 MW. The UNE anticipates that daytime disruptions could reach 1,250 MW.
The statement highlighted that solar generation contributed 2,085 megawatt-hours (MWh) thanks to 38 newly installed photovoltaic parks in the country, reaching a maximum output of 398 MW during peak sunlight. Nevertheless, this contribution falls short of meeting the national demand.
Thermal Power Plants Out of Commission
The UNE reported malfunctions in Units 5 and 8 of the Mariel Thermal Power Plant, Unit 3 of the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Plant in Cienfuegos, Unit 2 of the Felton Plant in Holguín, and Units 3 and 5 of the Antonio Maceo Plant in Santiago de Cuba. Additionally, maintenance continues on Unit 2 of the Santa Cruz del Norte Plant and Unit 4 of the Céspedes Plant.
Technical limitations in thermal power generation amount to 548 MW, while fuel shortages impact an additional 1,228 MW. This includes 101 distributed generation plants, 40 MW from the Regla Barge, 105 MW from Mariel's Fuel, and 156 MW unavailable due to a lack of lubricants.
Peak Hour Forecast
The UNE expects Unit 8 of the Mariel Plant to come online, potentially contributing 60 MW, along with 40 MW from the Regla Barge and 105 MW from Mariel's Fuel. Despite these efforts, the peak hour forecast predicts an availability of 1,325 MW against an estimated demand of 3,150 MW, leaving a deficit of 1,825 MW.
"If current conditions persist, a 1,855 MW shortfall is expected during peak hours," the state company warned, confirming another day of widespread blackouts for the country.
The ongoing degradation of the SEN, compounded by inadequate maintenance and fuel shortages, keeps Cuba trapped in a chronic energy crisis that directly impacts both the economy and daily life.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing the widespread blackouts in Cuba?
The blackouts are primarily due to a significant deficit in power generation capacity, exacerbated by technical malfunctions in thermal plants and fuel shortages.
How is solar energy contributing to Cuba's power supply?
Solar energy has added 2,085 MWh to the grid, thanks to 38 newly established photovoltaic parks, but it is still insufficient to meet the overall demand.
What are the technical challenges facing Cuba's thermal power plants?
Several units across major thermal power plants are out of service due to technical malfunctions, contributing to a loss of 548 MW in generation capacity.