The official journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso reported on Thursday that the crisis of the National Electroenergetic System (SEN) in Cuba has worsened, reaching a generation deficit of 1,457 MW at 6:45 p.m. "Almost 1,500 MW shut down at 6:45 p.m. The National Electric System is in a very complex situation tonight," Alonso stated on Facebook, accompanying his post with a screenshot from the Mayabeque Electric Company's Telegram channel.
In the image, the company informed that the country faces "a generation capacity deficit of 1,457 MW." The EFE agency warned that Wednesday had been one of the most affected days in Cuba in recent months. However, with an even more severe forecast of a 1,457 MW deficit, Thursday is shaping up to be one of the darkest days Cuba has experienced in recent times.
Earlier, it was reported that the shutdown of Renté Unit 6 on Thursday brought the number of thermoelectric units out of service on the island to seven, according to a director of the Electric Union in the daily televised briefing.
Worsening Power Outages
As evidence of the intensifying crisis, on Wednesday, the electric service was affected for 24 hours due to the generation capacity deficit, and it was not possible to restore supply during the early hours. It was also explained that the maximum impact on Wednesday occurred during peak hours, with a deficit of 1,233 MW at 8:30 p.m., and although it was slightly less than planned, the situation worsened later when three more units went out of service.
On Wednesday, the Santiago de Cuba Electric Company announced an increase in power outages but downplayed concerns that service cuts would reach 24 hours, as warned on social media by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta.
Amid the escalating energy crisis, the regime claimed that it is betting on renewable energy sources, optimistically announcing that before the end of the year, two photovoltaic parks would come online, contributing 21 MW each to the SEN.
Understanding Cuba's Power Crisis
Here are some key questions and answers to help you understand the current power crisis in Cuba.
What is causing the power crisis in Cuba?
The power crisis in Cuba is primarily due to a significant deficit in generation capacity, with multiple thermoelectric units out of service.
How severe is the current generation deficit?
As of the latest reports, the generation deficit has reached nearly 1,500 MW, making it one of the most severe deficits in recent times.
What measures are being taken to address the crisis?
The Cuban regime is attempting to address the crisis by investing in renewable energy sources, including the planned commissioning of two photovoltaic parks before the end of the year.