The Cuban government has celebrated the raising of the six 220 kV high-voltage towers that were toppled by Hurricane Rafael in Artemisa as an achievement, highlighting the efforts of the electrical brigades to restore the system.
However, the reality for thousands of residents in Artemisa contrasts with the official optimism. More than 40% of the province remains without electricity two weeks after the cyclone hit.
Hurricane Rafael, classified as a Category 3 with winds of 180 km/h, devastated the infrastructure of the western region on November 6. The damage included not only high-voltage towers but also electrical poles, homes, and crops, leaving Artemisa and Pinar del Río in a deep energy crisis.
The Electric Industry Construction Company (ECIE) has announced that the new towers will be fully operational this Saturday, although the electricity supply for the population still relies on 110 kV lines, which do not ensure the necessary energy stability.
As of this Thursday, municipalities such as Alquízar and Caimito remained in darkness, with the lowest recovery rates, according to official data.
The Cuban energy system, already weakened by the aging of thermal power plants and a lack of maintenance, is facing a generation deficit that exacerbates the situation.
The recent shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant has caused blackouts to reach critical levels, with impacts of up to 1,700 MW during peak hours.
In contrast to official announcements, the reality reveals a system unable to respond efficiently to natural disasters and everyday needs.
The reliance on temporary solutions highlights the structural fragility of a country where blackouts have become part of daily life.
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