The Cuban Electrical Union (UNE) has released an update on the nation’s electrical grid for December 2, highlighting the continuation of power outages throughout the week due to a generation shortfall. Though service was restored in the western region on Sunday, blackouts persisted as the system struggled with insufficient capacity. During peak demand hours, the outages peaked at 1,384 MW, and disruptions resumed from 5:05 a.m. today.
UNE reported that the current availability of the National Electro-energy System (SEN) is 1,794 MW against a demand of 2,100 MW, causing a supply interruption of 343 MW. Additionally, breakdowns persist in the province of Artemisa, where Hurricane Rafael left 13 MW out of service, with no recovery in sight yet.
Projections for Monday’s peak hours indicate a deficit of 1,432 MW in Cuba, with potential impacts reaching up to 1,502 MW if conditions remain unchanged. Contributing factors to the ongoing crisis include malfunctions in key generating units and a fuel shortage affecting 57 distributed generation plants and the floating power station in Santiago de Cuba.
This dire situation has sparked public outcry across social media, as Cubans vent their frustration with questions like, "How long will this nightmare last?" Many have also cast doubt on the accuracy of UNE’s reported data, pointing out inconsistencies between demand figures and electricity availability.
Comments have surfaced highlighting the uneven impact of the blackouts, criticizing the inequitable planning of affected areas. One user noted that her area has been consistently hit while others have barely experienced outages since the hurricane. Meanwhile, a tone of resignation was also apparent: "A wise person told me to learn to live with these blackouts; they are now part of our grim reality."
This scenario, compounded by uncertainty about the future of the country's energy infrastructure, underscores the despair of a populace facing not only power outages but the economic hardships they bring.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba's Ongoing Blackouts
What is causing the power outages in Cuba?
The blackouts are primarily due to a shortfall in power generation capacity, compounded by breakdowns in key generating units and a shortage of fuel that affects many distributed generation plants.
How is the Cuban public reacting to the ongoing blackouts?
The public has expressed significant frustration and skepticism towards the UNE's data via social media, with many questioning the fairness of the power outage distribution and doubting the accuracy of the reported figures.
What are the expected impacts of the power shortages?
The expected impacts include a lack of electricity for essential services, further economic difficulties, and increasing public dissatisfaction and despair regarding Cuba's energy infrastructure.