The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) has forecast significant power supply disruptions due to a generation shortfall exceeding 650 MW, according to their report on the state of the National Electro-Energetic System (SEN) for September 5.
The UNE's communication indicated that the electrical service was disrupted on Wednesday due to a generation capacity deficit from 10:28 AM until the early hours of Thursday. During peak hours, the largest impact was recorded at 620 MW at 7:00 PM, which did not coincide with the highest demand period.
On the morning of this report, at 7:00 AM, there was an availability of 2,400 MW against a demand of 2,390 MW. However, a 200 MW impact is expected due to insufficient generation capacity.
The situation is exacerbated by breakdowns in various units of the country's thermoelectric plants. The units affected include Unit 5 of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant, Unit 6 of the Mariel Thermoelectric Plant, and Unit 2 of the Felton Thermoelectric Plant, which are currently out of service, limiting thermal generation by 511 MW.
Additionally, 49 distributed generation plants are out of service due to a lack of fuel, impacting an extra 363 MW. The UNE aims to recover 50 MW through distributed generation engines currently offline due to fuel shortages.
If these efforts succeed, they predict a total availability of 2,450 MW during peak hours against a maximum demand of 3,050 MW, resulting in a deficit of 600 MW and potentially affecting up to 670 MW during high consumption periods.
This scenario highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Cubans, including an outdated energy system, daily breakdowns at thermoelectric plants, and a severe fuel shortage.
On the state-run program Mesa Redonda, the government warned that the generation deficit would persist indefinitely in Cuba. They claimed that if everything goes according to plan, by 2025, they will be able to generate one minute of electricity without relying on imported fuels. This announcement has sparked laughter and debate on social media.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
Below are some frequently asked questions to help understand the current power crisis in Cuba and its implications.
What is causing the power outages in Cuba?
The power outages are primarily due to a significant deficit in generation capacity, exacerbated by breakdowns in thermoelectric plants and a severe fuel shortage.
How much is the current power deficit in Cuba?
The current power deficit in Cuba is expected to exceed 650 MW, with potential impacts reaching up to 670 MW during peak consumption periods.
What measures are being taken to address the power crisis?
The UNE is attempting to recover 50 MW through distributed generation engines currently offline due to fuel shortages. They also plan to generate electricity without relying on imported fuels by 2025, according to government statements.