The energy situation in Cuba remains dire this August, with power outages affecting much of the nation. According to official data from the Unión Eléctrica de Cuba (UNE), the National Electric Service (SEN) experienced significant disruptions on August 8, 2024, due to a generation capacity deficit.
Service was interrupted from 8:36 AM until 3:49 AM on August 9. The highest impact, reaching 621 MW, occurred at 9:50 PM, although this figure did not align with the peak consumption hours. The outlook for Friday appears even more complicated, as several units of thermal power plants remain out of service due to malfunctions: Unit 4 of the CTE Cienfuegos, Unit 2 of the CTE Felton, Unit 5 of the CTE Renté, Unit 5 of the CTE Nuevitas, and Unit 2 of the CTE Santa Cruz.
These breakdowns, coupled with limitations in thermal generation amounting to 348 MW, exacerbate the energy crisis. Additionally, fuel shortages have sidelined 49 distributed generation plants, resulting in an additional loss of 290 MW.
During peak hours, an availability of 2,387 MW is expected against a maximum demand of 3,100 MW, leading to a deficit of 713 MW. If these conditions persist, an impact of 783 MW is forecasted during peak consumption hours, predicting a difficult night for the Cuban population.
These routine power cuts not only degrade the quality of life for Cubans but also strain the nation’s economy, already struggling with other structural problems. The situation, which seems to have no short-term solution, keeps the population on edge as they face yet another day of heat and darkness in the midst of summer.
Understanding Cuba's Ongoing Energy Crisis
Here we answer some frequently asked questions about the ongoing energy crisis in Cuba, focusing on the causes and impacts of the persistent power outages.
What caused the power outages in Cuba on August 8, 2024?
The power outages were caused by a generation capacity deficit, as several units of thermal power plants were out of service due to malfunctions and fuel shortages.
How long did the power outage last on August 8, 2024?
The power outage lasted from 8:36 AM on August 8 until 3:49 AM on August 9.
Which thermal power plant units are currently out of service?
Units out of service include Unit 4 of CTE Cienfuegos, Unit 2 of CTE Felton, Unit 5 of CTE Renté, Unit 5 of CTE Nuevitas, and Unit 2 of CTE Santa Cruz.
What is the expected power availability versus demand during peak hours?
During peak hours, an availability of 2,387 MW is expected against a maximum demand of 3,100 MW, resulting in a deficit of 713 MW.