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The Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant (CTE), the largest electricity generating unit in Cuba, disconnected from the National Electroenergetic System (SEN) this Sunday due to a failure in the power supply of the control system at a nearby substation.
The journalist José Miguel Solís reported on Facebook that the unit is in the process of starting up and that its synchronization with the SEN could occur in the coming hours.
According to figures shared by Solís, once operational, the plant would provide 250 MW, which would help reduce the severe deficit the country is facing this Sunday.
"Information is under construction and, unfortunately, somewhat delayed due to connectivity issues. We apologize," emphasized the journalist on his social media.
Regarding the "new" failure of the CTE, engineer Rubén Campos Olmo, the director of the entity, explained to CubaDebate that the opening of the main switch at the substation caused the outage. He added that "there was no technological or electrical protection from the thermoelectric plant following this situation. Preliminary investigations by the technicians detected a control voltage failure at the substation. If confirmed, this could be the cause of the switch opening."
The news portal emphasized that a damaged battery was also recorded in a high-pressure valve system, an issue that was managed to be resolved in a very short time.
Additionally, he noted that in the month of May a partial maintenance has been scheduled with the aim of thoroughly inspecting the recent breakdowns, cleaning the boiler, and adjusting auxiliary equipment.
The energy crisis in Cuba reached a critical point this Sunday with the unexpected shutdown of the CTE Antonio Guiteras, a situation that raised alarm among Cubans due to the possibility of a total collapse of the National Electric System (SEN).
The plant, considered one of the most efficient in the country, was disconnected due to an "unidentified malfunction," which dramatically worsened a situation that was already unfavorable.
In recent days, the Cuban population is facing a worsening of the energy crisis, with a deficit that again exceeds 1,600 MW, intensifying blackouts across the country.
Last Thursday, the Lidio Ramón Pérez (Felton) thermoelectric plant went offline from the National Electric System for maintenance. According to a Facebook update from official journalist Emilio Rodríguez Pupo, the plant will be out of service for 10 days, further exacerbating the situation in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba and the Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant
What caused the recent disconnection of the Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant?
The disconnection was caused by a power supply failure at a nearby substation, which led to the opening of the main switch and, consequently, the exit of the plant from the National Electroenergy System (SEN). Additionally, a damaged battery was reported in a high-pressure valve system, which was quickly resolved.
What is the importance of the Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant in the Cuban electrical system?
The Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant is the largest electricity generating unit in Cuba and is crucial for mitigating blackouts in the country. Its capacity to provide up to 250 MW is essential for reducing the energy deficit and ensuring the stability of the electrical supply.
How does the energy crisis affect the Cuban population?
The energy crisis in Cuba has led to prolonged blackouts that affect the quality of life of the population, limiting access to basic services such as food, water, and medical care. This situation has heightened social frustration and sparked protests in various regions of the country.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has implemented "microsystems" and has made fuel and supply purchases in an attempt to alleviate the crisis. However, the lack of a clear and effective strategy has left the population with few visible improvements in the electrical supply.
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