Amid Cuba's ongoing energy crisis, the country's largest power plant, the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant, was once again disconnected from the National Electroenergetic System (SEN) early Saturday at 2:30 AM due to what was described as minor maintenance.
Officials have indicated that this maintenance is expected to last approximately four days.
Rubén Campos Olmo, the plant's general manager, informed the Cuban News Agency that over 500 corrective measures will be implemented. These include addressing failures in the high-temperature reheater (RAT) tubes, which have been a major cause of excessive water consumption in the unit, now over 35 years old.
Additionally, the maintenance work involves cleaning the condenser, washing the regenerative air heaters (CAR), repairing and replacing around 40 valves, and making interventions in the automatic and electrical systems, as stated by Campos Olmo.
These efforts are being carried out by approximately 100 workers from the Electric Plant Maintenance Company (EMCE), hailing from various provinces.
On Friday, authorities had initially stated that the maintenance would be delayed by at least 48 hours due to the inability to halt the plant without further destabilizing the nation's already precarious electrical system, which is plagued by daily blackouts and a generation shortfall.
In recent months, the Guiteras plant has encountered numerous breakdowns, unexpected shutdowns, and leaks that have led to its persistent operational interruptions.
Just days prior, the plant had been partially stopped for component replacement work following a series of breakdowns that exposed the structural decay of the facility.
Officials explained that the intervention was crucial to prevent more severe damage, although a full maintenance schedule was postponed due to the instability of the network.
Soon after, another malfunction forced the Guiteras plant offline again, requiring load distribution among less efficient units and resulting in increased blackouts nationwide.
The recurring failure pattern underscores the regime's inability to maintain a plant that, despite its age, remains a critical source of power generation for the country.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Challenges
Why is the Antonio Guiteras plant so important to Cuba's energy system?
The Antonio Guiteras plant is crucial because it is the largest thermoelectric facility in Cuba, providing a significant portion of the country's electricity. Its operation is vital for maintaining the national power supply.
What are the main challenges faced by the Guiteras plant?
The plant faces numerous challenges including frequent breakdowns, outdated infrastructure, and a lack of stable maintenance, all of which contribute to its recurring operational interruptions.
How does the shutdown of the Guiteras plant affect Cuba?
The shutdown exacerbates the energy crisis, leading to more frequent blackouts and forcing other less efficient plants to compensate, which strains the country's already fragile energy infrastructure.