The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) has projected a dire scenario for the island's power supply this Tuesday, predicting a Christmas Eve shrouded in darkness for millions, as power outages during peak hours are expected to reach 1,314 MW. Yesterday, electrical service was disrupted due to a generation shortfall starting at 5:19 a.m., peaking at 1,432 MW by 6:30 p.m., precisely during the highest demand period.
Although power was restored by 1:22 a.m., outages resumed just three hours later at 4:13 a.m. As of 7:00 a.m. today, the National Electric System's (SEN) availability stood at 1,480 MW, while demand reached 2,150 MW, resulting in a 742 MW deficit. By midday, the shortfall is predicted to climb to 980 MW, severely impacting the central-eastern regions due to high energy transfers to these areas.
Struggling Power Infrastructure
Four thermal units are currently out of operation: Unit 8 of the CTE Mariel, Unit 2 of the CTE Felton, and Units 3 and 6 of the CTE Renté. In addition, five units are undergoing maintenance: Units 2 and 3 of the CTE Santa Cruz, Units 3 and 4 of the CTE Cienfuegos, and Unit 5 of the CTE Renté. Thermal limitations are affecting an extra 209 MW, while 79 distributed generation plants are offline due to fuel shortages, accounting for 519 MW.
Moreover, six engines from the Melones barge and seven from the CDE Moa are down, together contributing to another 196 MW of power loss. The UNE plans to bring some units online to alleviate peak-hour strain: Unit 3 of the CTE Santa Cruz is set to provide 50 MW, while six engines from the CDE Mariel and others from the Melones barge will add 110 MW and 96 MW, respectively. Nevertheless, these efforts will fall short.
Public Outcry and Government Ineptitude
Projected availability for the evening is estimated at 1,736 MW, against a peak demand of 2,980 MW, leading to a 1,244 MW deficit. This could result in outages up to 1,314 MW, severely affecting the populace during Christmas Eve celebrations. Cubans have expressed their bitterness and frustration over the announcement, adding to the pervasive sense of despair.
"Cuba is the world's Christmas tree: with outages here and there, we are the most miserable worldwide"; "Not even a day like today can be celebrated without these blackouts. It's shameful to be the only country unable to celebrate this special day"; "It's disrespectful that today we must celebrate in darkness due to their complete ineptitude and lack of foresight," were some of the comments from disgruntled Cubans. "Enjoy Santa Claus's gift!" another user sarcastically remarked.
A Crisis Rooted in Mismanagement
The Cuban regime's inability to ensure a stable electricity supply on such a significant occasion as Christmas Eve and Christmas highlights, once again, its chronic inefficiency and lack of foresight. While millions worldwide enjoy an evening illuminated by tradition and the joy of celebration, Cuba's darkness has become a bitter symbol of a failed system unable to provide even the basic conditions for its citizens to share special moments.
This crisis is not the result of isolated events but of decades of improvisation, structural decay, and neglect towards the real needs of the people.
Understanding Cuba's Power Crisis
What is causing the power outages in Cuba?
Cuba's power outages result from a combination of outdated infrastructure, maintenance issues, and fuel shortages, leading to significant generation deficits.
How are Cubans reacting to the power crisis?
Cubans are expressing frustration and anger, criticizing the government's inability to manage basic services and highlighting how it affects their lives, especially during significant occasions like Christmas Eve.
What measures is the Cuban Electric Union taking?
The UNE is attempting to bring some power units online to reduce the peak-hour strain, but these measures are insufficient to meet the demand.