Cuba's ongoing energy crisis is escalating, with extensive power outages expected to impact over half of the nation this Monday, January 20, 2025, as reported by the Cuban Electric Union (UNE). The day will be marked by an acute shortage in electricity generation capacity, leading to prolonged power cuts across multiple provinces.
Severe Blackouts and Energy Deficit
The official report from the UNE indicated that outages began at 5:30 a.m. yesterday and continued into the early morning hours. The highest disruption occurred at 6:20 p.m. with a shortfall of 1,530 MW, which exceeded expectations due to higher-than-anticipated demand.
As of 7:00 a.m. on Monday, the National Electric System (SEN) is capable of generating 1,530 MW, while the demand has surged to 2,430 MW, resulting in an initial shortfall of 945 MW. By midday, this gap is expected to increase to 1,250 MW.
During the peak hours in the late afternoon and evening, the available electricity is projected to be 1,640 MW against an anticipated demand of 3,250 MW. This indicates a deficit of 1,610 MW, with a real impact of 1,680 MW, confirming that more than half of the country will be left without power during the most critical parts of the day.
Power Plants Offline and Fuel Shortage
A significant factor worsening the crisis is the lack of power generation at several thermoelectric plants (CTE) and a scarcity of fuel. Currently, nine production units are offline due to breakdowns or maintenance:
Out of service due to breakdowns:
- Unit 5 of Mariel CTE
- Unit 6 of Nuevitas CTE
- Unit 3 of Renté CTE
- Unit 2 of Felton CTE
Under maintenance:
- Unit 2 of Santa Cruz CTE
- Unit of Guiteras CTE
- Units 3 and 4 of Cienfuegos CTE
- Unit 5 of Renté CTE
Additionally, due to a lack of diesel and fuel oil, 53 distributed generation plants are out of service, representing an additional loss of 296 MW in total SEN capacity.
Measures and Forecast for Peak Hours
In response to this critical situation, UNE anticipates the reactivation of unit 5 of the Mariel CTE with 60 MW and the stabilization of Energas Boca de Jaruco with another 60 MW. Nevertheless, these additions fall short of meeting the nighttime demand.
If the current conditions persist, the country will face a significant generation shortfall leading to widespread power cuts, severely impacting the daily lives of Cubans. The energy crisis continues with no short-term solutions, as citizens endure prolonged blackouts and growing uncertainty about electricity supply in the coming days.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing the energy crisis in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba is primarily caused by a shortage in electricity generation capacity, exacerbated by offline power plants due to breakdowns and maintenance, alongside a lack of fuel.
How are the blackouts affecting daily life in Cuba?
The blackouts are significantly disrupting daily life in Cuba by causing prolonged power outages, affecting both residential and industrial activities, and increasing uncertainty about the reliability of electrical supply.
What measures is the UNE taking to alleviate the crisis?
The UNE plans to bring unit 5 of Mariel CTE back online with 60 MW and stabilize Energas Boca de Jaruco with another 60 MW, although these measures are not enough to meet the overall demand.