As anticipated following the shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, significant power outages are expected in Cuba this Friday, with a deficit of around 1000 MW. On Thursday, electricity cuts lasted 24 hours and continued into the early hours of today. At 8:40 PM, the maximum impact was recorded at 1085 MW, 196 MW higher than planned.
According to the report from the National Electric Union (UNE), as of 7:00 AM on Friday, the availability of the national electric system (SEN) was 1980 MW, with a demand of 2350 MW, resulting in a shortfall of 444 MW. By noon, the maximum projected deficit was nearly double, at 850 MW.
For the peak hours, the UNE estimates an availability of 2160 MW and a maximum demand of 3150 MW, resulting in a deficit of 990 MW. Consequently, a shortfall of 1060 MW is forecasted.
This figure is slightly lower than the 1085 MW recorded on Thursday. However, as typically occurs, the UNE's forecast that day fell short of actual events, making it highly probable that the 1060 MW announced for today will also be underestimated.
Currently, in addition to the Guiteras plant, three units of the Santa Cruz, Mariel, and Felton thermoelectric plants are out of service due to faults. One block of the Santa Cruz CTE is under maintenance.
Additionally, fuel shortages have kept 52 distributed generation plants, the Regla barge, and the Santiago de Cuba barge offline, affecting a total of 435 MW. Furthermore, there are limitations in thermal generation of 416 MW.
Cuban Power Crisis: Key Questions Answered
The ongoing power crisis in Cuba has raised numerous questions about the causes and potential solutions. Here, we address some of the most pressing inquiries related to the current situation.
Why are there continuous power outages in Cuba?
The continuous power outages in Cuba are primarily due to the shutdown of major thermoelectric plants, fuel shortages, and limitations in thermal generation.
What is the role of the National Electric Union (UNE) in this crisis?
The National Electric Union (UNE) is responsible for managing and projecting the availability and demand of the national electric system. However, their forecasts have often underestimated actual deficits.
How are fuel shortages impacting power generation?
Fuel shortages have led to the shutdown of 52 distributed generation plants and two barges, significantly reducing the overall power generation capacity.