Cuba is grappling with extensive power outages once again. According to the official report from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), the National Electric System's (SEN) availability at 6:00 AM this Sunday was a mere 1,108 MW, while the demand surged to 2,807 MW, resulting in 1,723 MW of power being unavailable at that time.
Saturday offered no respite for Cubans as power cuts persisted throughout the day and night, reaching a peak deficit of 2,179 MW at 7:50 PM, as documented by the UNE.
Grim Forecast for Sunday Evening
The outlook for Sunday night remains bleak. The state-run company forecasts that during peak demand hours, availability will still be 1,108 MW against a demand of 3,200 MW, leading to a projected shortfall of 2,062 MW.
The only new addition to the grid is expected to be unit 8 from the Mariel thermoelectric plant, which is currently starting up and will add just 60 MW to the system.
Generator Units Out of Service
Several generating units are still offline. Units 6 and 8 of the Mariel Thermoelectric Plant, unit 2 of the Felton Plant, and unit 3 of the Renté Plant are experiencing breakdowns.
Maintenance is ongoing for unit 3 of the Santa Cruz Plant, unit 5 of the Nuevitas Plant, and units 5 and 6 of the Renté Plant. These thermal generation limitations account for a loss of 460 MW.
Solar Energy's Limited Relief
Solar power offers some relief during daylight hours, but it falls short of addressing the underlying issue. On Saturday, 54 new solar photovoltaic parks generated 4,870 MWh, with maximum output reaching 758 MW at noon. However, this generation decreases come evening, precisely when demand peaks and the deficit escalates.
July 2026 has become the most catastrophic month for Cuba's electric system in recent memory. The SEN has collapsed completely five times this year, totaling ten full collapses within approximately 24 months.
Understanding Cuba's Power Crisis
What is causing the power outages in Cuba?
The power outages in Cuba are primarily due to the significant deficit between electricity demand and the available supply, exacerbated by the breakdown and maintenance of multiple generating units.
How do solar photovoltaic parks contribute to Cuba's energy supply?
Solar photovoltaic parks contribute to Cuba's energy supply by generating electricity during daylight hours, with 54 new parks producing 4,870 MWh on a recent day. However, this contribution diminishes in the evening when demand is highest.
What has been the impact of the power crisis on Cuba?
The power crisis has led to widespread outages affecting daily life and economic activities across the country, with the SEN experiencing total collapses multiple times this year.