Vicente de la O Levy, Cuba's Minister of Energy and Mines, acknowledged on Wednesday that the island's energy crisis lacks a swift resolution, admitting that the nation does not have the necessary fuel to stabilize its National Electric System. Amidst widespread criticism due to frequent power outages, he emphasized twice that the "path is long."
His remarks come at a crucial time for Cuba's electric grid. On the same day, the Cuban Electric Union (UNE) predicted a deficit of 2,380 megawatts (MW) during peak demand, potentially leaving about 74% of the country without power, marking the highest level of impact recorded since official statistics began.
In his address, De la O Levy acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating that the country lacks the fuel needed to meet its energy demands. "We do not have fuel, and we don't foresee receiving it in the volumes our economy requires," he asserted.
The minister explained that under normal circumstances, Cuba consumes roughly eight million tons of fuel annually, with about half used for electricity generation. "Today, we receive no fuel, absolutely none," he admitted.
Strategies Amid Fuel Shortages
In light of the current scenario, the Energy Minister defended the government's strategy to reduce reliance on imports. "The path is long, it's sovereign, it involves developing Cuban fuel, national crude, gas, and not just solar renewables," he stated.
De la O Levy reiterated this sentiment, attributing the slow progress to external roadblocks. "The path is long, but we are making strides, and every step we take is obstructed," he explained.
He pointed out that U.S. sanctions are hindering the arrival of essential equipment and supplies needed to alleviate the crisis, mentioning that containers with solar panels, food, and medicines are held up at ports near Cuba.
These resources, he claimed, were intended for teachers, doctors, sports heroes, "heroes of labor," and children who depend on electricity for medical reasons. He acknowledged that many cases remain unresolved. "There are still many unresolved, many children yet to be addressed," he noted.
An Electric System on the Brink
The minister's statements arise amidst one of the worst energy crises Cuba has witnessed in decades. In July, the National Electric System experienced several collapses and historic generation deficits, with blackouts lasting up to 20 hours or more in numerous provinces.
In March, the nation endured the longest blackout of the year, with power outages extending for 29 hours and 29 minutes. The fuel shortage stems from a mix of internal and external factors. In 2026, supplies from Venezuela significantly decreased, while Russia and Mexico also reduced or suspended parts of their shipments.
Adding to the difficulties are U.S. sanctions. On May 1, former President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14404, expanding restrictions on strategic sectors of the Cuban economy and implementing new measures aimed at hampering energy supplies to the island.
Foreseen Challenges
This isn't the first time the minister has sounded the alarm on the severe situation. As early as May, he declared that Cuba had "absolutely no fuel" or "absolutely no diesel," and that the electric system was surviving on accompanying gas and national crude.
By December 2025, he had already predicted that 2026 would be particularly challenging, with ongoing power outages affecting the population. Despite the grim outlook, De la O Levy concluded his speech with a message to electric sector workers and reiterated the government's commitment to finding solutions.
"We will continue working to seek solutions," he assured, yet without providing a timeline for when the prolonged power cuts, affecting millions of Cubans daily, might begin to ease.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is causing Cuba's energy crisis?
Cuba's energy crisis is largely due to a shortage of fuel, compounded by reduced supplies from traditional allies and stringent U.S. sanctions that impede the arrival of necessary equipment and resources.
How is the Cuban government addressing the power outages?
The government is focusing on reducing dependency on imports by developing domestic fuel sources, increasing the use of national crude and gas, and investing in renewable energy sources.
Are there any efforts to alleviate the impact on vulnerable populations?
Yes, resources such as solar panels, food, and medicines are intended for teachers, doctors, sports heroes, and children who rely on electricity for medical equipment. However, many resources are currently held up due to sanctions.