Editorial of CubitaNOW ~ Sunday June 16, 2024
Matanzas firefighters continue to monitor the fuel tank that caught fire last Friday morning at the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant (CTE). The fire was extinguished that same afternoon, according to plant authorities.
Rubén Campos Olmo, general director of the CTE Antonio Guiteras, explained that since Friday afternoon, specialized forces have been monitoring the emission of gases from inside the warehouse, a common procedure in these situations. In addition, the temperature has been measured and the tank’s continuous cooling has been maintained with specialized techniques and firefighting systems. Campos Olmo assured that there are the necessary resources to maintain this surveillance as long as necessary.
The general director also reported that the drainage of water from inside the deposit has already begun and that they are preparing for the extraction of crude oil sometime next week. However, the plant’s current priority is to remain operational within the national electricity system, contributing nearly 260 megawatts to the country.
In addition, Campos Olmo explained that fuel has begun to be received from the Supertanker Base. This operation requires greater care since the same tank is now used for both receiving and operating, with the corresponding controls at the inlet of the pumps.
The fire occurred around 10:40 a.m. on Friday in one of the national crude oil tanks that feed the CTE Guiteras. The fire started while repairs were being carried out on the warehouse staircase, necessary to access its operation. The causes of the incident are still being investigated.
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