The energy crisis in Cuba worsens with a bleak outlook for this Monday, May 5th.
According to the report from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), the National Electric System (SEN) is experiencing a challenging situation: the service was continuously affected throughout the previous day and remained the same early this morning, with a peak deficit reaching 1450 megawatts (MW) at 8:50 PM, during the highest demand period.
The availability of the SEN at 7:00 am this Monday was 1855 MW, far below the estimated national demand of 2725 MW, which forced a disconnection of 915 MW across the country. By noon, an even greater impact is expected: 1350 MW without service.
A system collapsed due to breakdowns, maintenance issues, and a lack of fuel
The partial collapse of the system is due to multiple causes: on one hand, several key thermoelectric units are out of service due to breakdowns, such as units 5 and 8 of the Mariel Thermoelectric Power Plant (CTE) and unit 2 of the Felton CTE.
In addition, other plants are undergoing maintenance: this is the case for unit 2 of the Santa Cruz CTE, unit 4 of the Cienfuegos CTE, unit 6 of the Nuevitas CTE, and unit 5 of the Renté CTE.
Particular concern arises from the shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras power plant, the largest in the country, which will undergo an emergency shutdown for five days.
These technical problems are compounded by a recurring factor: the scarcity of fuel.
According to the UNE, 81 distributed generation plants (which contribute 610 MW to the system) are out of operation due to a lack of fuel. Additionally, there are 133 MW inactive at the Mariel fuel plant, totaling 706 MW lost for fuel-related reasons.
Renewable energy is advancing, but it is not enough
The UNE's informative note highlighted that the nine new photovoltaic solar parks contributed 938 MWh on Sunday, a figure insufficient to compensate for the severe deficiencies of the thermal system.
Gloomy forecast for peak hours
The estimated balance for tonight's peak hours does not provide any relief. The UNE expects to recover 80 MW from diesel plants currently offline due to lack of fuel, and that unit 5 of the Mariel plant will contribute 65 MW again.
With these additions, the total availability would barely reach 1790 MW, compared to a projected peak demand of 3400 MW.
This would leave a deficit of 1,610 MW, which could lead to actual impacts of up to 1,680 MW if conditions do not improve.
The country's energy reality translates, in practice, into prolonged blackouts extending across all provinces, affecting everything from household consumption to hospital services, transportation, and industrial and agri-food production.
The population, caught between despair and uncertainty
Meanwhile, millions of Cubans are trying to adapt to a daily life marked by power outages that last for several hours, often without prior notice.
The lack of clear information regarding the duration and frequency of blackouts fuels social discontent. There is also growing concern about the potential impact on the school year, food preservation, and the functionality of critical infrastructure such as aqueducts, hospitals, and telecommunications centers.
Judging by the accumulation of breakdowns, the lack of thermal generation, and the issues with fuel supply, the electricity crisis in Cuba does not appear to have an immediate solution in sight.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the main cause of the energy deficit in Cuba?
The energy deficit in Cuba is due to a combination of factors, including breakdowns in thermoelectric units, prolonged maintenance of these facilities, and a shortage of fuel. The partial collapse of the electrical system is attributed to technical issues and a lack of resources, leading to prolonged blackouts across the country.
What impact do power outages have on the daily life of Cubans?
Power outages in Cuba significantly affect the daily lives of citizens, impacting household consumption, healthcare services, transportation, and industrial and agricultural production. The population faces prolonged blackouts, which generate frustration and social discontent. Additionally, the lack of clear information regarding the duration and frequency of the outages exacerbates the situation.
How is Cuba trying to solve the energy crisis?
Cuba has tried to mitigate the energy crisis by incorporating renewable energy, such as photovoltaic solar parks, but these contributions are insufficient to compensate for the shortcomings of the thermal system. The lack of investment in infrastructure and the dependence on outdated technologies remain a barrier to resolving the crisis.
What is the short-term forecast for the energy crisis in Cuba?
The short-term forecast for the energy crisis in Cuba is bleak. The impacts of the electricity deficit will continue without an immediate solution in sight, and current conditions suggest that prolonged blackouts will remain a reality for the Cuban population.
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