Amid a severe energy crisis, the Cuban government proudly highlighted the performance of three recently established solar photovoltaic parks on Monday. According to the Cuban Electric Union (UNE), these installations exceeded their planned production by 61 MWh. Located at the Nursing School in Havana, Alcalde Mayor in Cienfuegos, and La Sabana in Granma, the solar parks generated a total of 337 MWh. This achievement was noted in a report addressing the condition of the National Electric System (SEN), which remains critically unstable.
As of 7:00 a.m. on Monday, March 24, the energy availability stood at 1,837 MW, while the demand reached 2,200 MW, resulting in a shortfall of 457 MW. The forecast for the evening peak expected a deficit of 1,353 MW with potential power cuts hitting up to 1,423 MW.
Challenges Persist Despite Solar Efforts
Despite the promising output from the solar parks, it remains insufficient to resolve the structural crisis of the SEN, characterized by frequent breakdowns and maintenance needs at the main thermoelectric plants across the island. Currently, Unit 2 of the Felton Thermoelectric Plant and Unit 6 of the Renté Thermoelectric Plant are out of service, with five additional units undergoing maintenance.
In spite of official optimism, the reality of Cuba's national energy system is far from stable, leaving Cuban citizens to endure regular and extended blackouts. On the previous day, the maximum impact reached 1,475 MW at 8:00 p.m., the time of highest demand.
Solar Energy Propaganda vs. Real Solutions
Amidst this backdrop, the regime has ramped up its propaganda efforts surrounding solar energy expansion, boasting regional leadership in renewable energy and the rapid inauguration of numerous solar parks. However, experts caution that without significant modernization of the electrical grid and effective storage solutions, the true benefit of these installations will be minimal.
While the solar parks represent a positive development, Cuba's energy crisis remains unresolved, with the government resorting to triumphant rhetoric as the population grows weary of daily blackouts.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing the energy crisis in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba is largely due to the instability of the National Electric System, frequent breakdowns, and maintenance issues at key thermoelectric plants.
How effective are the new solar parks in addressing the energy crisis?
While the new solar parks are a positive step, they currently do not generate enough power to significantly alleviate the ongoing energy crisis without further grid modernization and storage solutions.
What measures are being taken to solve Cuba's energy issues?
The government has been focusing on expanding solar energy infrastructure. However, experts suggest that a deep overhaul of the electric grid and better energy storage systems are necessary for substantial improvement.