The Cuban Electrical Union (UNE) announced early Thursday that progress is being made in the "strategy" for the gradual recovery of the National Electrical System (SEN). The state-run entity reported that overnight, power was successfully restored to the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant in Matanzas and the Nuevitas Plant, allowing both facilities to initiate the startup process.
The UNE mentioned that over 10 emergent generation islands are providing coverage in the central, eastern, and Pinar del Río regions. Meanwhile, as daylight broke, specialists began inspections in western areas affected by Hurricane Rafael to "assess damage and immediately commence recovery efforts."
Challenges and Delays in Havana
Simultaneously, the Havana Electric Company shared a brief update on Facebook, indicating that the capital must await the assessment of transmission lines before commencing the creation of microsystems. This delay underscores the complexities of the recovery process in urban areas.
Ministry of Energy and Mines Provides Outlook
The Ministry of Energy and Mines (MINEM) has described the restoration of electrical service as a "slow process." The ministry highlighted efforts to establish electrical subsystems in the island's central and eastern regions. "In the west, this process will be slower as it requires extensive review of lines and essential electrical installations. This protocol demands time," warned MINEM on X.
On Wednesday, shortly before 3 p.m. and prior to Hurricane Rafael making landfall, the UNE reported that strong winds had disrupted the SEN, prompting the activation of "contingency protocols."