As the end of 2024 approaches, Cuba remains engulfed in its most severe energy crisis in decades, leaving its citizens enduring continuous power outages. On Thursday, the National Electroenergetic System (SEN) announced on Facebook that during peak hours, an available capacity of 1,880 MW is anticipated, compared to a maximum demand of 3,150 MW, resulting in a shortfall of 1,270 MW.
If these conditions persist, the statement predicts power disruptions could reach up to 1,340 MW during peak periods. The focus of these disruptions will be in the central eastern region, due to "significant energy transfers to this area," the report emphasized.
The daily report also indicated that at 7:00 a.m., the SEN's availability was 1,880 MW against a demand of 2,150 MW, with 394 MW affected by generation deficits. This forecast suggests Cubans face a challenging day ahead with widespread outages. "During midday, a deficit of 850 MW is expected," the report noted.
On Wednesday, the system experienced service interruptions due to insufficient generation capacity starting at 5:05 a.m. The most severe impact occurred at 6:10 p.m., aligning with peak demand, when the deficit peaked at 1,307 MW. Although a temporary recovery was achieved at 1:40 a.m. Thursday, outages resumed at 4:58 a.m. due to the ongoing inability to satisfy electrical demand.
Currently, the operational challenges are compounded by the breakdowns of unit 2 at the Felton Thermoelectric Plant and unit 3 at the Renté Plant. Maintenance is underway on unit 2 at the Santa Cruz Plant, units 3 and 4 at the Cienfuegos Plant, and unit 5 at the Renté Plant, resulting in thermal generation limitations totaling 321 MW.
Furthermore, 72 distributed generation stations are offline due to fuel shortages, accounting for a 430 MW loss. Adding to the strain, the Moa plant is experiencing a 127 MW deficit, contributing to a total unavailability of 557 MW for this reason.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing Cuba's current power outages?
Cuba is experiencing power outages due to a significant shortfall in electricity generation capacity, exacerbated by equipment failures, maintenance issues, and fuel shortages.
How much electricity is Cuba short of during peak hours?
During peak hours, Cuba faces a shortfall of approximately 1,270 MW, potentially affecting up to 1,340 MW of the demand.
Which regions in Cuba are most affected by power disruptions?
The central eastern region of Cuba is particularly affected due to the significant transfer of energy required in that area.