The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the reactivation of the Antonio Guiteras power plant into Cuba's national electrical grid has sparked widespread outrage among citizens. Expressing their mounting frustration on social media, Cubans are dismayed by the lack of concrete solutions to the persistent power outages.
For several days, the Guiteras plant, a key electricity generator, has been out of operation. Despite contradictory reports from officials regarding its repair, public discontent continues to escalate. Official statements suggest the plant might resume operations by Friday, yet many citizens doubt this will happen. They fear that even if it does return to service, it may soon break down again.
Comments on platforms like CiberCuba echo a deep sense of disillusionment. One user sarcastically remarked, “If I were the one delivering the updates, I’d look for another job,” highlighting the inconsistencies in reports from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE). Another user quipped, “It might be up on Friday, only to go down by Monday with a headache or fever... that's how it is all year.”
Meanwhile, the situation in various provinces remains dire. Residents in areas such as Granma, Cienfuegos, Matanzas, and Camagüey report power cuts lasting up to 20 hours a day. “We’ve been without electricity for 16 straight hours and who knows how much longer,” lamented one woman. Another added indignantly, “In this country, disrespect is rampant.”
Criticism has also intensified over the perceived favoritism towards Havana in power distribution. “We have to endure outages so the capital can have electricity,” complained one user, while another sarcastically asked, “Which power plant does Havana belong to, or does it have its own?”
Many are expressing despair over the living conditions caused by the prolonged blackouts. “It’s too much; 15 hours without power, and when it’s restored, it’s only for 45 minutes. Food spoils, and there’s no water for drinking or bathing. How much longer must Cuba endure this?” questioned an affected individual.
Critics also target the government's resource allocation, arguing that it prioritizes hotel construction over investing in electrical infrastructure. “Instead of building so many hotels, they should have built a modern power plant,” suggested one woman. Another echoed this sentiment: “They buy million-dollar planes but can’t ensure electricity for the people.”
The widespread anger has led many to lose hope for a resolution. “What needs to disconnect is communism; enough is enough,” stated one user. The outlook remains bleak. With aging power plants and a collapsing electrical system, Cubans are left enduring frequent blackouts, uncertain of when or how long they will have electricity. “The only thing missing is for the earth to open up and swallow us,” an exasperated citizen commented.
As power outages persist, the population grows increasingly weary and hopeless. “No food, no gas, no light... Cuba is a country of misery,” concluded one woman, reflecting the feelings of thousands who see no end to the energy crisis.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing the power outages in Cuba?
Cuba is experiencing power outages due to aging power plants, including the Antonio Guiteras plant, and a collapsing electrical system.
How are citizens reacting to the power issues?
Citizens are expressing their frustration and despair on social media, criticizing the government's handling of resources and the perceived favoritism towards Havana.
What solutions are being proposed by the public?
Many suggest prioritizing investment in modern power plants instead of building new hotels and addressing the resource allocation issues.