The Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant was once again disconnected from the National Electric System (NES) early Thursday morning at 4:58 a.m., as reported by the Unión Eléctrica (UNE) on their social media.
This shutdown was caused by a boiler leak, the same issue that had previously taken the plant offline on May 5. This marks the ninth malfunction for Guiteras in 2026, occurring just five days after it was reconnected to the NES on May 9, following a 90-hour repair period involving nearly 300 corrective measures.
Escalating Energy Crisis in Cuba
The latest shutdown exacerbates an already record-breaking energy crisis, with a deficit peaking at 2,113 MW on Wednesday at 8:40 p.m. This left only 1,230 MW available against a demand of 3,250 MW.
For Thursday, UNE forecasted an impact of up to 2,050 MW during peak evening hours, leading to blackouts lasting between 20 and 22 hours a day in Havana.
Fuel Shortages Compound the Problem
Cuba's fuel situation is dire, with the system operating without reserves since early May, following the depletion of a 100,000-ton crude donation from Russia that arrived on March 31.
Energy and Mines Minister Vicente de la O Levy confessed on Wednesday that Cuba is effectively "out of fuel," describing the scenario as "acute, critical, and extremely tense."
Structural Challenges at the Guiteras Plant
Located in Matanzas, the Antonio Guiteras plant is the NES's largest single generator, capable of producing up to 270 MW. However, it suffers from severe structural deterioration. Its last major maintenance was in 2010, and it has been over 15 years since a comprehensive overhaul was conducted.
Plant Director Román Pérez Castañeda acknowledged the need for at least 180 days of downtime for proper maintenance but admitted that "the country's situation still does not allow it."
"We avoid stopping unless absolutely necessary to prevent affecting power generation," Pérez Castañeda stated, highlighting the vicious cycle of Cuba's energy infrastructure: halting operations means repairs can’t be made, yet stopping worsens the blackouts.
The capital maintenance for Guiteras was promised for late 2025 but was postponed by Minister De la O Levy due to a "temporary issue."
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What caused the recent shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras plant?
The recent shutdown was due to a boiler leak, a recurring issue that has previously taken the plant offline.
How is the energy crisis affecting Havana?
Havana faces blackouts of 20 to 22 hours daily due to an energy deficit and fuel shortages.
What is the current state of Cuba's fuel reserves?
Cuba's fuel reserves are depleted, operating without reserves since early May after using a Russian crude oil donation.