The National Electric Power System (SEN) in Cuba is experiencing the worst moment in its recent history, on the brink of collapse due to deficits that exceed one thousand megawatts.
The power outages once again extended uninterrupted on Thursday for 24 hours, peaking at 8:40 PM when it failed to supply 1,775 MW to consumers, exceeding expectations for that time.
This disruption was caused by the emergency shutdown of unit 1 at the Santa Cruz thermoelectric power plant, which worsened widespread blackouts throughout the night.
Balance of availability and demand
At 7:00 am this Friday, the SEN had only 1700 MW available against a demand of 2800 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1100 MW that necessitated the continuation of rolling blackouts during the morning hours.
By noon, a greater shortage is projected, around 1200 MW.
Out of service plants and maintenance
The critical situation is worsened by breakdowns and scheduled maintenance at several plants.
Unit 1 of the Santa Cruz thermoelectric plant and Unit 2 of the Felton remain out of service, while maintenance work is being carried out on three blocks of the Santa Cruz, Cienfuegos, and Renté power plants, as well as the Guiteras plant.
On the other hand, to balance the fuel shortage in Nuevitas, unit 6 of that power plant was taken out of service this morning, reducing the available thermal capacity by 338 MW.
Impact of fuel shortage
The lack of diesel supply and other sources has rendered 72 small distributed plants inoperable, totaling 462 MW not being generated.
This fuel deficit adds to the technical limitations and breakdowns, creating a situation where the recovery of units becomes increasingly slow and costly.
Forecast for the evening peak
Based on the startup times and fuel delivery, the authorities anticipate adding 80 MW recovered from diesel plants and another 78 MW by reactivating unit 1 of Santa Cruz during peak hours.
However, even with these additions, the availability would barely reach 1858 MW compared to an estimated maximum demand of 3400 MW.
This would result in a deficit of 1542 MW and cuts equivalent to 1612 MW during peak consumption hours, a level of impact that threatens the stability of the system.
Role of insufficient solar energy
The 11 photovoltaic solar parks that recently came into operation produced 1,058 MWh throughout the day. Although this renewable contribution represents progress in diversifying the energy matrix, its generation covers less than 40% of the accumulated deficit, and therefore has not managed to mitigate the extended power outages.
Block rationing plan in Havana
To manage the crisis, the Electric Company of Havana will implement a schedule of rotating outages by customer blocks.
Block 5 will experience outages from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM; block 2 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM; followed by block 1 until 8:00 PM; and later in the evening, service will be interrupted in block 4 starting at 7:00 PM and in block 3 from 8:00 PM.
The restoration will take place gradually between 11:00 PM and midnight, following the reverse order of the disruptions.
Towards a generalized collapse
With aging thermal units, reduced fuel supplies, and renewable sources still insufficient, the Cuban power grid is facing its toughest challenge yet.
Experts warn that if urgent investments in infrastructure and a solid energy diversification plan are not implemented, the National Electric System (SEN) could experience prolonged massive outages, leaving the Island at a permanent risk of extensive blackouts that could harm the economy and social well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions about Blackouts and the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the main cause of the blackouts in Cuba?
The main cause of power outages in Cuba is the electric generation deficit, which exceeds 1,500 MW due to a combination of breakdowns in generation units, lack of maintenance, and fuel shortages. This critical situation has brought the National Electric Power System (SEN) to the brink of collapse.
What measures are being taken to address the energy crisis in Cuba?
To confront the crisis, scheduled electricity cuts by blocks have been implemented in Havana, and efforts are underway to incorporate more renewable energy, such as the development of solar parks. However, these measures have not been sufficient to address the current deficit, as renewables barely cover 40% of the accumulated deficit.
What is the impact of power outages on the daily lives of Cubans?
Prolonged blackouts severely affect the quality of life of Cubans, hindering basic activities such as cooking, refrigerating food, and maintaining lighting in homes. Additionally, they negatively impact the economy, affecting industry, commerce, and public services.
What role does solar energy play in Cuba's energy crisis?
Solar energy has been promoted as part of the solution, with the operation of 11 photovoltaic solar parks that generated 1058 MWh in a day. However, its contribution remains insufficient, covering less than 40% of the energy deficit, which has not managed to alleviate the prolonged power outages.
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