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The National Electro-Energetic System (SEN) is experiencing one of its most critical days of the year this Wednesday, with a generation deficit exceeding 1,500 megawatts (MW), causing widespread blackouts across the island.
According to the daily report from the Electric Union (UNE), during the previous day, the electric service was disrupted from 6:13 a.m. and remained unstable throughout the day and into the early morning. The highest disruption was recorded at 7:40 p.m., reaching 1,528 MW, coinciding with the peak demand hour.
The increase in the deficit was due, among other reasons, to the non-operation of unit 5 of the Mariel thermoelectric plant and to a demand that exceeded expectations. This Wednesday, at 7:00 a.m., the system's availability was 1,835 MW, compared to a demand of 2,450 MW, which already led to an impact of 646 MW. By noon, an impact of 950 MW is estimated.
Regarding the status of the major thermal power plants:
- Unit 2 of the Felton CTE is down for repairs.
- The following are under maintenance: unit 8 of Mariel, unit 2 of Santa Cruz, units 3 and 4 of Cienfuegos, and units 3 and 5 of Renté.
Additionally, there are 356 MW limited by issues in thermal generation, and another 78 distributed generation plants are out of service due to a lack of fuel, resulting in an additional 467 MW affected.
For the peak evening hours, an availability of 1,835 MW is estimated against a demand of 3,280 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,445 MW and a projected impact of 1,515 MW.
Scheduled blackouts in Havana
The Electric Company of Havana reported that, due to this situation, rolling blackouts will be implemented in blocks throughout today
- 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.: Block #2
- 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.: Block #1
- 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.: Block #3
- 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.: Block #4
The entity stated that its communication channels on Telegram, X, and Facebook are active to provide updated information, and made available the number 18888 for direct assistance through the Telephone Support Center.
As long as the deficit persists, it is expected that the negative impacts will continue in the coming days, directly affecting the daily lives of millions of Cubans.
The government admits that the power outages will continue
Despite the critical energy situation, the Minister of Energy and Mines, Vicente de la O Levy, recently acknowledged that power outages will continue throughout the year, including the summer, although the outlook could improve thanks to the addition of 46 new photovoltaic solar parks, with an estimated capacity of up to 1,000 MW.
The official explained that this measure would partially alleviate the generation deficit, but warned that it does not represent a definitive solution, due to the structural deterioration of the national electrical system, affected by outdated thermoelectric plants, lack of spare parts, cuts in investments, and a sustained decline in crude oil production.
It was also indicated that the first energy storage systems are being received to stabilize the service, although it was not specified when they will be operational. Meanwhile, power outages will continue to affect millions of Cubans with no immediate solution in sight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blackouts in Cuba and the Energy Crisis
Why are there so many blackouts happening in Cuba?
Power outages in Cuba are mainly due to a deficit in electricity generation that currently exceeds 1,500 MW. This deficit is caused by the lack of operation of several generation units, breakdowns, scheduled maintenance, and an unanticipated high demand. Furthermore, the lack of fuel has rendered numerous distributed generation plants non-operational.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has acknowledged that power outages will continue throughout the year. As part of the measures to improve the situation, the incorporation of 46 new photovoltaic solar parks with an estimated capacity of up to 1,000 MW is being promoted. However, these measures are not a definitive solution due to the structural deterioration of the electrical system and the lack of investment.
How do power outages affect daily life in Cuba?
Power outages severely impact daily life in Cuba, interrupting not only electricity in homes but also in essential services such as hospitals and workplaces. The population endures prolonged periods without electricity, which negatively affects quality of life and productivity. Furthermore, uncertainty about the stability of the electrical service generates frustration and discontent.
What are the main causes of the collapse of the Cuban electrical system?
The collapse of the Cuban electrical system is due to several causes. Among the main ones are the deterioration of obsolete thermal infrastructure, the lack of spare parts, cuts in investments, and a sustained decline in crude oil production. Also contributing are the breakdowns and scheduled maintenance at the plants, as well as the fuel shortages that affect distributed generation.
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