The Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant has successfully cooled its boiler as of Wednesday and is gearing up for tests to evaluate the full extent of the damage, according to a recent update shared by the plant on Facebook.
Located in Matanzas, this plant is Cuba's largest individual power generator. It was disconnected from the National Electrical System at 9:12 AM on Tuesday due to a boiler malfunction, resulting in a loss of 140 MW, a critical blow to an already strained system.
The official statement noted that "hydraulic and pneumatic tests will soon be conducted to rule out any damage to the boiler."
Hydraulic testing involves using pressurized water to uncover cracks or leaks, while pneumatic testing uses compressed air to ensure component integrity.
The power plant indicated that by around 3:00 PM, they should have a diagnosis of the identified defects, which will allow them to commence repair efforts.
Until this assessment is complete, there is no definitive timeline for the plant's return to service.
Efforts are underway with specialized labor working 24-hour shifts to expedite the process, as stated in the release: "We are working around the clock to avoid delays and resume operations as soon as the repairs are finished."
This marks the eighth time the Guiteras plant has been offline in 2026, with immediate repercussions across the island. Power outages surged following the plant's shutdown, with a projected deficit of 1,720 MW for Wednesday night's peak and an estimated impact of 1,750 MW.
The recent history is troubling. In February 2026, a hydraulic test revealed a defect in the boiler's "Nodriza," significantly delaying the plant's restart and keeping it out of service longer than initially anticipated.
The situation is exacerbated by a fuel shortage; the Russian oil that temporarily mitigated Cuba's blackouts was depleted by late April, and no additional shipments have been confirmed.
Opened in 1988, the Guiteras plant has a nominal capacity of 250 to 340 MW and contributes 20% to 25% of the national thermal generation. Despite operating for over 36 years, it has never undergone comprehensive maintenance.
Ironically, just a week before this latest malfunction, the Guiteras plant was awarded the National Vanguard distinction for the fifth time, a recognition that sparked widespread discontent among Cubans enduring power outages.
Key Issues at Guiteras Power Plant
What caused the recent shutdown of the Guiteras Power Plant?
The recent shutdown was caused by a malfunction in the boiler, resulting in a loss of 140 MW from the national grid.
How is the plant addressing the damage assessment?
The plant is conducting hydraulic and pneumatic tests to assess the damage to the boiler and working round the clock to expedite repairs.
Why is the Guiteras plant important to Cuba's power supply?
The Guiteras plant provides between 20% and 25% of Cuba's thermal generation, making it a crucial component of the national power supply.
What challenges are complicating the power situation in Cuba?
The power situation is aggravated by a fuel shortage and the lack of maintenance at key facilities like the Guiteras plant, leading to frequent outages.