The latest report from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE) reveals ongoing severe power outages, with the crisis impacting over 1,000 MW of electricity for this Wednesday. Although the expected blackouts have been slightly reduced to 1,111 MW during peak hours, the situation remains dire.
On Tuesday, as has become the norm, the electrical service was disrupted for 24 hours, peaking at 1,356 MW of outages by 9 PM, 84 MW less than initially announced. As of 7:00 AM today, the National Electroenergetic System (SEN) had a capacity of 2,100 MW against a demand of 2,820 MW, resulting in a 748 MW shortfall due to generation capacity deficits. Daytime blackout predictions for Wednesday stand at 950 MW.
Current Power Plant Status
Three thermal power units are currently out of service: units 6 and 8 at CTE Mariel and unit 2 at CTE Felton. Notably, unit 5 at CTE Renté is no longer listed as out of order. Maintenance is ongoing for unit 5 at CTE Mariel, Energas Varadero, units 1 and 3 at CTE Santa Cruz, and unit 1 at CTE Felton.
Thermal generation limitations have increased to 394 MW, higher than the previous day. Additionally, 51 distributed generation plants are offline due to fuel issues, affecting 398 MW, three more than on Tuesday. To mitigate peak hour demand, several units are expected to come online, contributing an additional 219 MW.
Despite a reduction of approximately 300 MW in planned outages compared to the previous day, the deficit remains significant, as evidenced by public frustration. Comments from citizens highlight the growing discontent: "1,111 MW of deficit to keep torturing the people... total disaster... we can't even sleep," wrote one user. Another added, "Unión Eléctrica UNE, you are a disrespect. How long will this abuse continue?"
Another user expressed despair: "We are being psychologically destroyed, slowly. There's no strength to work, no motivation to study, and we can't tell our children there's no food or cold water to relieve this unbearable heat. Yet, they still ask for 'creative resistance.'"
Many referenced the promise of improvement made by UNE's technical director, Lázaro Guerra, which has not materialized. "Lazarito Guerra said there would be an improvement this week. He didn't say which century. The cynicism of these people knows no bounds. The only improvement I see is if they leave," commented another frustrated citizen.
In his Wednesday report, Lázaro Guerra reiterated his prior optimism, stating that the situation should gradually improve with the return of units that were previously down for maintenance or repairs.
Understanding Cuba's Ongoing Power Crisis
This section addresses common questions about the power outages in Cuba, providing clarity on the current situation and what the future might hold.
Why are there so many power outages in Cuba?
The power outages are primarily due to a lack of adequate infrastructure and fuel shortages, which have led to significant deficits in power generation capacity.
What is the current power deficit in Cuba?
As of the latest reports, the power deficit in Cuba is around 1,041 MW during peak hours.
How is the Cuban government addressing the power crisis?
The government claims to be working on the progressive reincorporation of units that were out of service due to maintenance or repairs, although improvements have been slow.