The start of 2025 brought a modest reduction in power outages across Cuba, according to the daily report released by the Unión Eléctrica on its various digital platforms. At 7:00 AM, available power was reported at 2200 MW, while demand was at 1670 MW, allowing the day to begin without any disruptions in electricity supply.
However, for the evening peak hours, an estimated availability of 2275 MW is anticipated against a peak demand of 2450 MW, leading to a projected shortfall of 175 MW and a maximum potential impact of 245 MW.
Current Energy Challenges
The energy landscape in Cuba remains challenged by breakdowns and maintenance issues affecting several thermal units:
Units Out of Service:
- Unit 5 at CTE Nuevitas
- Unit 2 at CTE Felton
- Unit 3 at CTE Ernesto Che Guevara
- Unit 6 at CTE Máximo Gómez (Mariel)
Units Under Maintenance:
- Unit 2 at CTE Santa Cruz
- Units 3 and 4 at CTE Cienfuegos
- Unit 5 at CTE Renté
The limitations in thermal generation currently total 323 MW. Additionally, 36 distributed generation plants remain offline due to a lack of fuel, representing a further loss of 151.1 MW.
Outlook for Peak Hours
To alleviate the deficit, the return of Unit 6 at CTE Máximo Gómez (Mariel) is expected during the peak hours, potentially reducing some of the anticipated disruptions.
Reflection on the Last Day of 2024
On the final day of 2024, power service experienced interruptions from 7:11 AM to 1:04 PM, with the maximum impact reaching 230 MW at noon, coinciding with the peak demand period.
The partial decrease in outages at the beginning of the year offers a slight reprieve, though structural limitations continue to challenge the stability of the island's electricity supply.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Situation
What caused the slight reduction in power outages on New Year's Day in Cuba?
The slight reduction was due to a balance between electricity availability and demand, with available power at 2200 MW and demand at 1670 MW, allowing the day to start without disruptions.
What are the main challenges facing Cuba's energy supply?
Cuba's energy supply is hindered by breakdowns and maintenance of thermal units, limited thermal generation, and the offline status of distributed generation plants due to fuel shortages.
How did the power supply fare on the last day of 2024?
On the last day of 2024, power interruptions occurred from 7:11 AM to 1:04 PM, with a peak impact of 230 MW at noon, aligning with the highest demand period.