When will the blackout crisis in Cuba end?

The blackout crisis in Cuba continues to affect the population. What are the prospects?

According to information provided in the Cuban Television News (NTV), the situation has remained tense due to the insufficiency in generation capacities, the unavailability of fuel and the growing increase in energy demand.

In a recent update provided by the general director of Electricity of the Ministry of Energy and Mines, Lázaro Guerra Hernández, it was detailed that during the last few days the demand for electricity has exceeded 3,400 MW, which has caused continuous damage due to the inability to cover that demand with the available generation.

These are the factors that prolong the blackout crisis in Cuba, according to this official source:

Unavailability of generation units: Currently, three thermal units are out of service. Unit 5 of the Mariel thermoelectric plant is expected to be operational again next week, while units 2 of the Santa Cruz del Norte thermoelectric plant and 5 of the Renté thermoelectric plant are undergoing extended maintenance, with no expected return in the future. short term.

Lack of fuel: Another critical factor is the lack of fuel that affects both floating plants and distributed generation. In Santiago de Cuba, for example, a floating plant remains idle due to supply shortages. This problem also affects the floating plant in Havana, which has experienced interruptions, although the arrival of fuel is expected in the next few hours.

Increase in demand: Despite the restrictions on generation, electricity demand has continued to increase, which aggravates the effects. On some days, demand has exceeded 3,400 MW, putting enormous pressure on the system, Guerra Hernández said.

Possible medium-term solutions

The state TV report reiterates that the Cuban government is betting on photovoltaic solar energy as part of the solution to the electricity crisis.

During midday, solar energy already contributes to reducing the effects, and it is expected that when new investments in this technology are made, the generation capacity will increase, especially during daylight hours, noted journalist Bernardo Espinosa. However, it must be remembered that these measures will not completely alleviate the situation in the short term.