The energy crisis in Cuba is intensifying, leading to widespread power outages that have sparked significant unrest among the population, particularly in the central and eastern regions. According to the latest report from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), the maximum power deficit recorded was 1,511 MW at 6:30 p.m. on the previous day. For the peak hours on Saturday, availability is expected to be 1,765 MW against an estimated demand of 3,200 MW, potentially resulting in a 1,505 MW shortfall.
Since the early hours of Thursday, vast areas of the country have been without electricity, with reports of prolonged outages, some lasting over 20 consecutive hours. In eastern provinces such as Granma, Las Tunas, and Holguín, blackouts have been a chronic issue, while in Havana and some privileged regions of the west, the power supply has been relatively more stable.
Propaganda Continues Amidst Crisis
Despite the nation being engulfed in its worst energy crisis in decades, the Cuban regime continues its agenda of propaganda. Currently, Havana is hosting the VI International Conference for the Balance of the World, attracting hundreds of foreign guests, including former Spanish minister Irene Montero, who from their hotels and tourist circuits, advocate for a system that fails to provide public services or the rights and freedoms to demand them.
Public Frustration Reaches a Boiling Point
The frustration of the Cuban people is palpable, with many taking to the UNE's social media channels to express their anger over the situation. Comments include:
"We remain trapped in this torment. When the power returns late at night, we have to rush to cook and do everything that requires electricity. It's a daily mental and physical exhaustion that's becoming unbearable."
"The president declared from day one: 'We are continuity and we strive for more'... more blackouts, more inflation, more misery."
"We go to bed without power and wake up without power. In some areas, we've had only an hour and a half of electricity. Cuba progresses, but only for a select few."
"Blackout schedule: Season 500 of the series 'The Eternal Blackout.'"
"There's no respite, not even at dawn. While the leaders sleep well, drink their coffee, and have early breakfasts, the people remain in darkness."
"We easterners are proud to conserve energy so that Havana can host congresses, festivals, and all sorts of luxury events."
"Some municipalities have been without power for more than 18 hours. What they’re doing to us is criminal. It seems the authorities have no concern for us."
"There is no respect for the Cuban people. We're tired of endless sacrifices and mistreatment. The people of Cuba deserve a better life."
"They tell us the outage will last for so many hours, but the reality is we are without electricity almost all day. There are no expectations, only unbearable realities."
No Resolution in Sight
The outlook remains bleak. This Saturday, the UNE reported that several generation units are still out of service due to malfunctions (Unit 3 of Renté and Unit 2 of Felton) or extended maintenance (Unit 2 of Santa Cruz, Units 3 and 4 of Cienfuegos, Unit 1 of Felton, and Unit 5 of Renté). Additionally, fuel shortages continue to impact the national electric system's operations, with a deficit of 431 MW, suggesting that power cuts are likely to persist or worsen in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the Cuban government has yet to present an effective strategy to resolve the crisis. The uncertainty surrounding the future of the electric service is growing, along with the desperation of Cubans who endure endless nights of heat, darkness, and anxiety.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is the main cause of the power outages in Cuba?
The primary causes of the power outages in Cuba are a combination of equipment failures, prolonged maintenance of power generation units, and fuel shortages affecting the National Electroenergetic System.
How have the power outages affected daily life in Cuba?
The outages have severely disrupted daily life, forcing people to adjust their routines around unpredictable electricity availability, leading to mental and physical exhaustion.
Is there a plan to resolve the energy crisis in Cuba?
As of now, the Cuban government has not provided a concrete plan to address the ongoing energy crisis, leaving citizens uncertain and frustrated about the future.