A malfunction at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, the largest power-generating unit in Cuba, triggered a widespread blackout on Wednesday. This outage not only cut off electricity for a significant portion of the island but also disrupted radio and television broadcasts.
Lázaro Manuel Alonso, a state-affiliated journalist, reported that this technical mishap resulted in the suspension of both radio and TV signals due to issues linked to the power grid's collapse.
The Unión Eléctrica (UNE) stated that the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras plant occurred at 12:41 p.m. due to a boiler leak, leading to the disconnection of the National Electroenergetic System (SEN) from Camagüey to Pinar del Río.
Later, Lázaro Guerra Hernández, the General Director of Electricity at the Ministry of Energy and Mines, clarified that service was interrupted from the western zone of Las Tunas to Pinar del Río, while the system remained operational from the eastern part of Las Tunas to Guantánamo.
Authorities have initiated protocols for the gradual restoration of the SEN, but they have not provided a specific timeline for the complete recovery of services.
This incident highlights the severe vulnerability of Cuba's electrical infrastructure. Even before this breakdown, the situation was dire: by 6:00 a.m., the SEN's availability was only 1,180 megawatts (MW), compared to a demand of 2,250 MW, with 1,050 MW affected.
The National Electrical System has long been plagued by frequent malfunctions in its thermoelectric plants, fuel shortages, and extended maintenance periods, resulting in daily blackouts across much of the nation.
Understanding Cuba's Power Crisis
What caused the widespread blackout in Cuba?
The blackout was caused by a malfunction at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, specifically due to a boiler leak that led to the disconnection of the National Electroenergetic System.
How did the power outage affect communication services?
The power outage disrupted the broadcast of radio and television signals across much of the country, as these services are dependent on the electrical grid.
What steps are being taken to restore electricity in Cuba?
Authorities have activated protocols for the gradual restoration of the National Electroenergetic System, although no specific timeline has been provided for full service recovery.