The Cuban Electric Company, known as UNE, has provided an update on the National Electric System (SEN) for January 9, 2025, highlighting a reduction in the severity of power outages that have recently plagued the country. On January 8, power service disruptions were noted from 6:16 a.m. to 8:22 p.m., with the central-eastern region being the most affected due to significant power transfers. The peak service disruption reached 755 MW at 6:30 p.m., aligning with the highest demand period.
As for the SEN's availability, as of 7:00 a.m. on January 9, there were 2,200 MW available against a demand of 1,800 MW, enabling consistent service across the network. However, by midday, a 350 MW shortage is anticipated, once again impacting the central-eastern area due to substantial power transfers.
Condition of Major Power Generation Units
The UNE's report specifies that certain units are currently out of operation due to breakdowns, including unit 5 at the Nuevitas Power Plant, unit 6 at the Renté Power Plant, and unit 2 at the Felton Power Plant. Additionally, units 2 and 3 at the Santa Cruz Power Plant, units 3 and 4 at the Cienfuegos Power Plant, and unit 5 at the Renté Power Plant are undergoing maintenance.
The report also notes limitations in thermal power generation totaling 235 MW. Furthermore, there are 40 distributed generation plants offline due to fuel shortages, accounting for an additional 203 MW that are out of service.
Looking ahead to peak hours this Thursday, the UNE forecasts an availability of 2,200 MW against an estimated peak demand of 2,900 MW, resulting in a projected deficit of 700 MW. This expected shortfall is less severe than those recorded in previous weeks, when outages exceeded 1,100 MW, following a year-end period with considerably lower figures.
Understanding Cuba's Power Outage Challenges
What is causing the power outages in Cuba?
The power outages in Cuba are primarily due to high power transfers, breakdowns, and maintenance of major power units, as well as fuel shortages affecting distributed generation plants.
How is the UNE addressing the power deficit?
The UNE is managing the power deficit by reporting on power availability and anticipating disruptions, as well as conducting maintenance on affected units.
What regions are most affected by the power outages?
The central-eastern part of Cuba is experiencing the most impact from the power outages, largely due to high power transfers in that area.