The province of Matanzas is grappling with an unprecedented energy crisis, enduring power outages that stretch up to 22 hours daily. This dire situation has forced local authorities to implement extraordinary measures. On Saturday, the Electric Company of Matanzas announced a new strategy aimed at ensuring one hour of electricity per day for the most affected circuits, striving to distribute the scant energy resources more equitably.
A report from TV Yumurí, citing an unnamed official, revealed the severe energy restrictions necessitating these drastic steps. "Our goal is to reduce demand primarily in the state sector, thereby allowing us to secure and potentially extend the hour of service provided to our customers," the official explained.
The official further stated, "The province is experiencing daily power disruptions averaging between 20 and 22 continuous hours. The plan is to provide one hour of power to the circuits suffering the most."
Additionally, the "one hour of power" initiative is a response to the need to reach every circuit, albeit minimally, with electricity, based on strategies devised by the Energy Council.
This critical situation has prompted action from the provincial entity led by the first secretary of the Communist Party in the province, Mario Sabines Lorenzo, and Governor Marieta Poey Zamora. In an extraordinary meeting with leaders and officials from various sectors, a series of measures were agreed upon to tackle the crisis:
- Suspension of non-essential activities: Reducing consumption in non-vital sectors to prioritize basic services.
- Strict control over large consumers: Implementing tight supervision on entities with high electricity use to optimize available resources.
- Food support in communities: Preparing and distributing food in neighborhoods to ensure access to essential products.
- Focused attention on vulnerable groups: Strengthening the Family Support System (SAF) and other mechanisms to aid vulnerable populations.
During Saturday's meeting, the provincial Energy Council also emphasized the need to enhance fuel efficiency and the performance of power generators. The importance of monitoring fuel supply for these units and training operators to optimize energy savings was highlighted.
Among proposed solutions, the goal is for the Jesús Sablón Moreno sugar mill in Calimete to achieve total energy self-sufficiency, reducing pressure on the provincial power grid. Additionally, energy misuse was reported in areas like Ciénaga de Zapata, Los Arabos, and Varadero, prompting increased inspections.
The energy crisis plaguing Matanzas is part of a broader issue exacerbated by the outdated national electric system, fuel shortages, and inadequate infrastructure. The population continues to face a desperate situation with a direct impact on quality of life, and no clear short-term solutions in sight.
Understanding the Energy Crisis in Matanzas
What measures are being taken to address the energy crisis in Matanzas?
The measures include suspending non-essential activities, enforcing strict control over high-consumption entities, providing food support in communities, and focusing attention on vulnerable groups.
How long are the daily power outages in Matanzas?
Daily power outages in Matanzas average between 20 to 22 hours continuously.
Who is responsible for managing the energy crisis in Matanzas?
The provincial entity led by Mario Sabines Lorenzo, the first secretary of the Communist Party, and Governor Marieta Poey Zamora are managing the crisis.