Rubén Campos Olmo, who formerly managed the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant in Matanzas—the largest power plant in Cuba—has been elevated to a leadership position within the National Electric Union (UNE).
The appointment was revealed through social media by the Matanzas Municipal Assembly, coinciding with the 38th anniversary of the institution. During the event, Campos was bid farewell with a heartfelt tribute from his colleagues.
The news has sparked disbelief among Cubans, who point out the irony of promoting the individual responsible for a plant known for its multiple failures, widespread blackouts, and chronic malfunctions, to now oversee the entire national electrical system during one of the island’s worst energy crises.
As of this report, no update has been provided regarding the fate of the previous UNE director, Alfredo López Valdés.
Escalating Energy Woes Under Campos's Leadership
Since taking the helm at Guiteras in 2020, Campos oversaw a series of operational disasters. In July 2025, a boiler malfunction was discovered, marking 35 years without major maintenance.
In September of the same year, a false signal indicating excessive superheated steam pressure triggered an automatic shutdown of the plant, resulting in a complete collapse of the National Electroenergetic System (SEN). By December, the plant was functioning at a mere 170 to 180 MW, well below its 330 MW capacity.
On March 6, 2026, a pipe rupture in the boiler caused another massive disconnection, impacting around six million residents from Camagüey to Pinar del Río, including Havana. Just ten days later, on March 16, a major blackout left 68% of the island without power for nearly 30 hours, with only 1,140 MW available against a demand of 2,347 MW.
Leadership Transition Amidst Crisis
Campos himself acknowledged during a September 2025 visit by President Díaz-Canel that "capital maintenance should occur every 7 to 8 years according to technical standards, but the last one was done 15 years ago."
At the anniversary event, a worker read a speech on behalf of the team, describing Campos as someone who "knew every valve, every piece of equipment, and above all, every man and woman who makes them work," asserting that "keeping Cuba's lights on is not just a job, it's a mission."
The address further expressed confidence, stating, "We are pleased that he will now bring his knowledge and passion to the National Electric Union, for where you are, the sector is in capable hands."
In his remarks, Campos urged those remaining at the plant to "redouble efforts, take care of the plant" with the most comprehensive approach possible and to "love this plant."
In 2026, Cuba is enduring its most severe electrical crisis, with daily generation deficits ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 MW, and six nationwide blackouts in just 18 months.
For many Cubans, Campos's promotion to the top of the national electrical system epitomizes the regime's approach to managing the ongoing energy disaster affecting the population.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What challenges did the Guiteras plant face under Campos's leadership?
The Guiteras plant dealt with numerous issues, including a lack of major maintenance for 35 years, system collapses due to false signals, and operating significantly below its capacity.
How has Cuba's energy crisis affected the population?
Cuba's energy crisis has led to severe power shortages, with daily generation deficits and frequent nationwide blackouts, affecting millions of residents across the island.
What does Campos's promotion signify for the Cuban energy sector?
For many, Campos's promotion highlights the regime's questionable management practices, as he now leads the national electric system despite his track record of overseeing failures at the Guiteras plant.