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The Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant, located in Matanzas, will be taken out of service for maintenance, as confirmed by government journalist José Miguel Solís through a post on Facebook.
Solís reported that this Tuesday the National Electric System (SEN) is operating with a deficit of 1,410 MW during peak demand hours, with five units offline. By noon, the deficit was at 850 MW, and it is expected that the load will stabilize during a period in the early morning.
Additionally, he pointed out that the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant is currently limited to 200 MW and awaits brief maintenance. Meanwhile, the Felton thermoelectric plant has already reintegrated into the SEN.
This measure is part of the ongoing efforts by the Cuban government to keep the country's main generating plant operational, whose instability has caused frequent blackouts in several provinces.
Authorities from the Electric Union (UNE) have previously indicated that maintenance work is necessary to prevent major future breakdowns, especially with the approach of the peak electricity demand period in the summer.
In October of last year, a malfunction at the plant caused a total blackout on the island, leaving more than 10 million people without electricity for several days.
This incident highlighted the fragility of the Cuban electrical system and the reliance on obsolete infrastructure.
Moreover, the scarcity of fuel and economic sanctions have limited the country's ability to make significant investments in the energy sector.
The recurring exit of the Guiteras from the National Electric System has intensified blackouts across the country, severely affecting the daily lives of Cubans.
These power outages have generated social discontent and have been the cause of protests on various occasions.
In a photo report from the official local media Girón titled "The rusty bones of the Guiteras can no longer endure," the regime's press, personifying the central structure, has described it as an old, worn-out body, now devoid of strength.
The situation underscores the urgent need to modernize Cuba's energy infrastructure to ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Antonio Guiteras Power Plant and the Energy Crisis in Cuba
Why is the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric power plant constantly under maintenance?
The Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant is facing recurring issues due to its outdated infrastructure and lack of proper maintenance. Frequent breakdowns, especially in the boiler, have led to successive disconnections from the National Electric System (SEN), affecting Cuba's energy stability.
What is the impact of the Guiteras outages on Cuba's electricity supply?
Breakdowns at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant cause frequent blackouts in several provinces of Cuba. Since it is one of the main sources of electricity generation in the country, its removal from the system increases the generation deficit and significantly impacts the daily lives of Cubans.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to carry out brief maintenance and mobilize specialized brigades for urgent repairs. However, the lack of significant investments and reliance on aging infrastructure have limited the effectiveness of these measures, perpetuating the energy crisis on the island.
How has the Cuban population reacted to the ongoing blackouts?
The Cuban population has expressed their discontent and frustration through protests and comments on social media. The constant power outages have generated social unrest, severely affecting the daily lives of citizens and provoking criticism of government management.
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