The Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant, Cuba's largest and most efficient, is once again mired in uncertainty regarding its return to the National Electric System (SEN) after suffering a recent breakdown. While previous estimates had been shared on social media, official journalist José Miguel Solís reported on Tuesday that it remains unclear when the plant will be reconnected to the SEN.
According to engineer Rubén Campos Olmos, corrective measures are being undertaken on the boiler, backed by specialized teams from the Central Electric Maintenance Company. Initially, Campos Olmos had suggested to Solís that the plant might rejoin the SEN by Friday, contingent on the severity of the malfunction.
“We need to assess the extent of the damage and how long the repairs will take before we can predict the precise reinstatement of the unit,” Solís quoted Campos Olmos in his recent update. A thorough inspection of the boiler's interior is essential to determine the full extent of the damage and the time required for repair.
The massive boiler, the only pressurized one operated by the Electric Union, began cooling down immediately after disconnection. Preparations are underway to address and fix the damage as swiftly and meticulously as the system demands, explained Campos Olmos.
A History of Persistent Malfunctions
The uncertain timeline for the plant's return adds to the growing anxiety over Cuba's electrical stability in the coming days. The Antonio Guiteras plant has been plagued by technical issues over recent years. Since 2022, the plant has frequently been taken offline due to boiler malfunctions, directly impacting the stability of the SEN and the country’s power generation.
In October 2024, a failure led to a nationwide blackout. In January 2025, another boiler issue resulted in another shutdown, exacerbating Cuba's ongoing energy crisis. The lack of proper maintenance and outdated infrastructure have made Guiteras a critical weak point in Cuba's electrical system. Without a stable and secure reintegration by the Electric Union, Cubans will continue to face uncertainty regarding power outages.
Chronicle of Guiteras Disconnections (2022-Present)
From 2022 onwards, the Guiteras plant has frequently disconnected from the SEN due to boiler failures. Here are some of the notable incidents:
- August 2022: Due to a boiler issue causing excessive water consumption, the plant temporarily left the SEN. After identifying and fixing the problem, it was ready to generate around 215 MW.
- September 2022: A leak in the boiler led to another disconnection. It was estimated to take about 30 hours for cooling before maintenance could begin.
- November 2022: Another boiler malfunction caused a disconnection, a recurring situation.
- June 2023: Despite over three months of maintenance, a boiler rupture occurred less than 72 hours after restart, once again disconnecting from the SEN. Social media users pointed out the boiler as the plant's weak link.
- August 2023: The plant went offline to address defects affecting performance, including water overconsumption and boiler issues.
- September 2023: A boiler fault led to another disconnection just three days after a previous issue was resolved.
- March 2024: Following a breakdown, the plant resynchronized with the SEN, only to disconnect 24 hours later due to a boiler and turbine steam leak issue.
- October 2024: An unexpected disconnection resulted in a nationwide blackout during Hurricane Oscar, highlighting the SEN's vulnerability.
- November 2024: A gas leak in the boiler area limited generation capacity, revealing persistent technical issues.
- January 2025: Once again, a boiler malfunction forced a disconnection, worsening power cut conditions on the island.
These incidents underscore the recurring issues with the Antonio Guiteras plant's boiler, significantly threatening Cuba's electricity supply stability.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Challenges
Why is the Antonio Guiteras plant critical to Cuba's power grid?
The Antonio Guiteras plant is Cuba's largest and most efficient thermoelectric facility, playing a crucial role in the National Electric System (SEN). Its consistent operation is vital for maintaining stable electricity supply across the island.
What are the main technical issues facing the Guiteras plant?
The plant frequently suffers from boiler malfunctions, leading to repeated disconnections from the SEN. These issues are exacerbated by inadequate maintenance and aging infrastructure.
How do these power outages affect Cuban citizens?
Power outages disrupt daily life, affecting everything from household activities to healthcare services. They also have economic repercussions, as businesses and industries struggle with unreliable electricity.