The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) announced that electricity service has been restored in Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo after repairing the 110 kV line fault at Renté. Despite the repair, the UNE acknowledged that "planned" outages remain due to a widespread generation deficit affecting the entire country.
"Regarding the 110 kV line fault at Renté, which caused power outages in Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo: service is now restored to all areas previously serviced before the incident. The existing outages are those planned due to the generation deficit," the UNE stated on social media.
This breakdown left Santiago de Cuba, San Luis, and the province of Guantánamo without electricity, leading to significant disruptions in essential services. According to the state-run company led by Alfredo López Valdés, prioritized circuits in Santiago de Cuba are now operational, and efforts are underway to restore service to other affected circuits.
"Prioritized circuits in Santiago de Cuba province have been restored. Work continues to re-establish power to other circuits following the 110 kV line fault at Renté, which cut off electricity to Santiago de Cuba, San Luis, and Guantánamo province," reported official journalist Luis Alberto Portuondo Ortega on Facebook.
Widespread Crisis in the National Power System
The Renté line issue adds to the critical situation in the National Electric System (SEN), which faces a considerable generation shortfall. According to the UNE, the SEN currently has a capacity of 1,794 MW against a 2,100 MW demand, resulting in a 343 MW supply interruption.
On Monday, during peak hours, the shortfall is expected to reach 1,432 MW, with outages potentially exceeding 1,500 MW unless conditions improve. This deficit is attributed to several issues, including:
- Breakdowns in multiple key generating units.
- Fuel shortages impacting 57 distributed generation plants and the power barge in Santiago de Cuba.
- Damage from Hurricane Rafael, leaving 13 MW out of service in Artemisa, an issue yet unresolved.
Public Frustration and Resignation
The energy crisis has sparked a strong public outcry on social media, with Cubans expressing their frustration. "How long will this nightmare last?" questioned one user, echoing the sentiment of many. Others have pointed out inconsistencies in the data reported by the UNE, arguing that the demand and availability figures don't add up.
Comments also highlight the uneven impact of the outages. One user criticized that her area has been constantly affected, while others have experienced minimal disruptions since the hurricane. Another expressed resignation: "A wise person told me to learn to live with these blackouts; they are now part of our sad reality."
The energy situation in Cuba not only affects the population's quality of life but also exacerbates economic and social challenges. The generation deficit limits productive activities and essential services, deepening the sense of hopelessness among citizens.
Understanding Cuba's Power Outage Crisis
What caused the recent power outage in Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo?
The outage was caused by a fault in the 110 kV line at Renté, which disrupted electricity service in Santiago de Cuba and Guantánamo.
Why are there still planned outages despite repairs?
Planned outages persist due to a national generation shortfall that affects the entire country, even after the recent repairs.
What are the main factors contributing to Cuba's power generation deficit?
The deficit is mainly due to breakdowns in key generating units, fuel shortages, and damages from Hurricane Rafael.