The Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant in Matanzas was temporarily disconnected from Cuba’s National Electric System on Sunday, despite successfully synchronizing earlier that morning. The disconnection, reported by journalist José Miguel Solís, came after an initial power output of 32 MW was reached at 11:20 AM. The plant halted operations to address a technical issue at the fuel preparation station.
According to engineer Rubén Campos Olmos, the necessary adjustment is expected to take approximately three hours. This step is part of ongoing efforts to stabilize the plant’s operations and ensure long-term performance. Solís noted that the plant’s ability to generate 32 MW serves as a positive indicator of the successful repairs made to the boiler, fueling optimism for a smooth final synchronization.
The journalist clarified that while the update was shared after 5:00 PM, the information was current as of 4:25 PM, noting, “and now we publish for obvious reasons.” Earlier in the day, Solís reported that technicians were adjusting the parameters to spin the turbine—a delicate procedure that first requires stabilizing the boiler pressure to around 100 atmospheres before supplying high-quality steam to reach 3,600 revolutions per minute.
Behind the Scenes: The Complex Process of Synchronization
The synchronization of the plant with the National Electric System is a meticulous operation, requiring precise coordination of energy delivery and consumption to maintain a consistent frequency of 60 cycles per second. “Nothing like a home generator!” Solís remarked, emphasizing the complexity of the process compared to domestic power systems.
Solís also praised the human effort involved in the operation. Technicians have been working long hours, including exhausting night shifts and over 48 consecutive hours of work. Makeshift office spaces, which double as places to rest and recharge, are vital for these workers, who manage the intricate details of the synchronization process, including the work of the start-up crew and BTG (Boiler, Turbine, Generator) technicians.
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