Cuba's Electric Union (UNE) has issued a report detailing significant disruptions in the National Electric System (SEN) as of January 17, 2025. These disruptions are primarily due to a marked generation deficit. On Thursday, power outages stretched from 9:01 AM to 11:22 PM. The peak interruption soared to 1,554 MW at 6:30 PM, aligning with the highest demand period. This figure surpassed expectations because of the unexpected shutdown of Unit 1 at CTE Santa Cruz and Unit 5 at CTE Nuevitas, further straining the system.
Current Status of the National Electric System
As of 7:00 AM this Friday, the SEN's availability stood at 1,750 MW, while demand reached 1,950 MW, resulting in an immediate shortfall of 260 MW. By midday, it's anticipated that this shortfall could climb to 750 MW. The SEN is currently grappling with numerous challenges, including malfunctioning units and those under maintenance, alongside limitations in thermal generation totaling 310 MW.
Units Out of Service
The following units are currently out of operation:
- Unit 8 of CTE Mariel
- Unit 5 of CTE Nuevitas
- Unit 2 of CTE Felton
Units Under Maintenance
The units under maintenance are:
- Units 2 and 3 of CTE Santa Cruz
- Units 3 and 4 of CTE Cienfuegos
- Unit 5 of CTE Renté
Fuel Shortage Intensifies Power Crisis
A substantial portion of distributed generation is offline due to a fuel shortage, totaling 432 MW out of operation. This includes:
- 38 distributed generation plants with a capacity of 215 MW
- The Melones floating power unit (170 MW)
- The Regla floating power unit (47 MW)
During peak demand hours, the reactivation of Unit 8 at CTE Mariel, providing 70 MW, is expected, potentially increasing availability to 1,820 MW against an estimated maximum demand of 3,300 MW. This scenario could result in a deficit of 1,480 MW, potentially affecting 1,550 MW of service during peak hours. The UNE advises the public and institutions to adopt conservation measures and remain vigilant regarding planned outage schedules.
Energy Crisis Deepens, Affecting Cuban Lives
Since 2020, Cuba's energy crisis has severely impacted citizens' quality of life, with daily power outages lasting for hours. The lack of reliable electricity generation and the government's failure to implement effective solutions have caused widespread discontent among the population.
These persistent power cuts disrupt not only everyday routines but also essential services like healthcare, water supply, and food preservation. Despite official promises of improvements in the sector, the ongoing lack of investment, infrastructure decay, and relentless fuel supply issues have prolonged the crisis, making power outages a painful constant in island life.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
Why is there a power outage crisis in Cuba?
The crisis is due to a combination of factors, including a significant generation deficit, malfunctioning and maintenance of power units, and a critical shortage of fuel.
How does the power crisis affect everyday life in Cuba?
The power crisis disrupts daily routines and essential services such as healthcare, water supply, and food preservation, significantly affecting the quality of life.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the power crisis?
Despite promises of improvement, the government struggles with inadequate investment, decaying infrastructure, and persistent fuel shortages, which have hindered effective resolution of the crisis.