As 2024 draws to a close, Cubans once again grapple with power outages, ending the year as it began—mired in one of the nation's most severe energy crises. The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) has forecasted a nighttime peak availability of 2,110 MW against a maximum demand of 3,150 MW for this Monday.
If the current conditions persist, a deficit of 1,040 MW is expected along with an anticipated impact of 1,110 MW. At 7:00 a.m., the National Electric System (SEN) had an availability of 1,945 MW, while the demand was at 2,000 MW, resulting in 109 MW affected and foreshadowing a day of significant outages.
Moreover, the UNE has indicated a projected midday disruption of 600 MW, with the central-eastern region likely to be hardest hit due to energy transfers. For the peak hours, the entry of Unit 5 of the Mariel Thermoelectric Plant, contributing 65 MW, is anticipated, alongside the recovery of 100 MW from distributed generation plants.
This past Sunday saw service disruptions beginning at 6:18 a.m., peaking at 1,182 MW by 6:10 p.m., coinciding with peak demand. Although service was restored by 10:31 p.m., outages resumed this Monday at 6:36 a.m., predominantly affecting the central-eastern region.
Currently, outages impact Unit 5 of the Nuevitas Thermoelectric Plant, Unit 2 of the Felton Thermoelectric Plant, and Unit 3 of the Renté Thermoelectric Plant. Maintenance work is ongoing on Unit 2 of the Santa Cruz Thermoelectric Plant, Units 3 and 4 of the Cienfuegos Thermoelectric Plant, and Unit 5 of the Renté Thermoelectric Plant. Thermal generation limitations amount to 293 MW.
Due to a lack of fuel, 51 distributed generation plants are offline, affecting 248 MW, along with four engines of the Regla Barge, accounting for 36 MW, and Unit 5 of the Mariel Thermoelectric Plant with 65 MW. These issues collectively result in 349 MW of disruptions.
Amidst growing public dissatisfaction threatening the nation's stability, the Cuban regime recently unveiled "its plan" to mitigate power outages and enhance SEN functionality by 2025. This involves adopting new technologies and advancing renewable energy projects. During a press conference, officials announced plans to add 1,200 MW to the SEN next year, primarily from photovoltaic parks harnessing solar radiation.
Understanding Cuba's Power Crisis
What is the current power availability in Cuba?
As of Monday morning, the National Electric System in Cuba had an availability of 1,945 MW, with a demand of 2,000 MW, resulting in some power shortages.
How is Cuba planning to address its power outages?
The Cuban government plans to enhance the SEN's functionality by 2025 through new technologies and renewable energy projects, aiming to add 1,200 MW, mainly from solar power.