Cuba is grappling with an escalating energy crisis, marked by widespread blackouts across the nation. According to the official report from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), on Sunday, the country experienced a maximum power outage of 1,808 MW at 8:40 p.m., coinciding with the period of peak demand. This figure surpassed the predicted 1,615 MW by 193 MW, representing one of the highest peaks reported in recent months.
Such a record-breaking level, reached only on rare occasions, historically signals the potential for a total collapse of the National Electric System (SEN), reminiscent of the breakdown that occurred in October 2024. The extent of the outages underscores the severe fragility of the nation's electrical infrastructure, plagued by breakdowns, deferred maintenance, and a growing shortage of fuel and lubricants.
As of Monday morning, the situation remains dire. At 7:00 a.m., the SEN's availability was 1,710 MW, while demand reached 2,800 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,149 MW. Projections for midday estimated an impact of 1,250 MW, with the evening peak expected to see a shortfall of 1,636 MW, and potential power cuts reaching up to 1,706 MW—nearing the historic high recorded the previous day. Given UNE's tendency to underestimate its forecasts, these figures could worsen.
The Cuban regime's response to the crisis involves hastening the construction of photovoltaic solar parks as part of a strategy to diversify the energy matrix. Recently, the operation of eight new solar parks was announced, contributing 982 MWh to the grid on Sunday. However, industry experts argue that this approach is neither sufficient nor suitable to address the structural crisis plaguing the SEN.
While solar generation is vital as a supplementary source, it is intermittent and weather-dependent, failing to meet the critical nighttime demand peaks. Additionally, connecting these solar facilities to an aging and poorly maintained grid significantly limits their actual efficiency.
Meanwhile, the Cuban population continues to endure prolonged power outages without a set schedule, leading to mounting social unrest. Social media has become a platform for constant complaints, where the accuracy of official reports is questioned, and an effective solution to the unrelenting crisis is demanded.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Challenges
What factors contribute to Cuba's current energy crisis?
Cuba's energy crisis is primarily due to outdated infrastructure, equipment breakdowns, deferred maintenance, and a shortage of fuel and lubricants. These issues have weakened the National Electric System (SEN) and led to widespread blackouts.
How is the Cuban government addressing the energy crisis?
The government is accelerating the construction of photovoltaic solar parks to diversify the energy matrix. However, experts believe this strategy is insufficient for solving the structural crisis of the SEN, as solar power is intermittent and cannot fully meet nighttime demand.
Why is solar power not enough to resolve Cuba's energy issues?
Solar power is weather-dependent and intermittent, which limits its ability to cover critical nighttime consumption peaks. Its effectiveness is also diminished when connected to Cuba's outdated and poorly maintained grid infrastructure.