Cuba's Minister of Energy and Mines, Vicente de la O Levy, recently visited Holguín province to assess the condition of the Lidio Ramón Pérez (Felton) thermoelectric plant. The plant's first unit is currently out of service due to issues with the generator's cooling system.
During his visit, De la O Levy, accompanied by local officials, reviewed the progress of technical evaluations aimed at identifying the extent of the damage, as reported by Emilio Rodriguez Pupo on social media. Eric Milanés Quinzán, the plant's general director, explained their efforts to reduce the equipment's temperature to carry out necessary repairs.
The plan is to halt the rotor this Monday, which will allow the team to open the casing and pinpoint the exact location of the fault. Until this procedure is completed, a timeline for repairs remains uncertain.
While in Mayarí, the minister also inspected the construction of the Corúa Cinco photovoltaic park, a project slated for completion by March 28, 2025, according to investors and builders. This initiative is part of Cuba's strategy to diversify its energy sources and lessen its reliance on fossil fuels.
The Felton thermoelectric plant is a critical component of Cuba's power generation infrastructure. Its shutdown poses a significant challenge to the stability of the national energy grid.
Ongoing Power Outages in Cuba
The Unión Eléctrica (UNE) announced that as of this Sunday, Cuba continues to face a generation deficit, with an estimated impact of 1,480 MW. This forecast might be conservative, as evidenced on Saturday when the expected maximum disruption of 1,405 MW was surpassed, reaching 1,735 MW at 6:40 pm, during peak demand.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Challenges
What is causing the current issues at the Felton thermoelectric plant?
The primary issue at the Felton plant is a malfunction in the generator's cooling system, which has led to the shutdown of its first unit.
When is the Corúa Cinco photovoltaic park expected to be completed?
The Corúa Cinco photovoltaic park is projected to be finished by March 28, 2025.
How are power outages affecting Cuba currently?
Cuba is experiencing ongoing power outages due to a generation deficit, with an expected impact of 1,480 MW, although actual figures have been higher.