José Martí International Airport announced on social media this Wednesday that, despite the collapse of the National Electric System (SEN), which interrupted power service across Cuba shortly after two in the morning today, the airport remains open. This facility is the most important and largest in the country.
"Despite the recent interruption of the National Electric System, our airports remain operational," they stated.
They further added that the Business Unit of Base (UEB) Havana Airport "is implementing contingency measures to ensure that all operations continue without any disruptions."
"We appreciate your understanding and would like to emphasize that your safety and comfort are our top priorities!" they concluded, without providing further details about the special measures being implemented.
"They are destroying tourism in Cuba," declared a user in the comments section; and this comes just after the third collapse of the SEN, shortly after the warning that the country's airports would run out of fuel for planes.
Although that notification was withdrawn shortly after due to the arrival of a rescue ship with a cargo of that fuel, concern persists.
During the first collapse of the SEN on October 18, images circulated showing the airport in darkness.
However, on that occasion, the Cuban Aviation Corporation (CACSA) stated in a communiqué that the ten international airports in the country, including the services and systems in their facilities, had energy backup to ensure "all services to the aircraft."
Third collapse of the SEN
The Ministry of Energy and Mines (MINEM) announced on social media this Wednesday morning that it has begun the progressive restoration of the National Electric System (SEN) through the "creation of islands," as was done during the previous two collapses.
In a post on the MINEM's X account, Vicente de la O Levy explained that "the conditions are more favorable than during the last disconnection," and added that compliance with the procedures is not affected by the hurricane.
"Distributed generation islands are now operational across the country. Priority is given to electrical microsystems for water pumping. Several units are ready to start up. Today, there will be a significant percentage of recovery in the national electrical grid," can be read in a recent publication.
The government-supporting journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso confirmed the information on Facebook, noting that an expansion of electricity coverage is expected throughout the day, although he cautioned that it will be “a slow process.”
"It is expected that the restoration will be fundamentally completed tomorrow," concluded Alonso, predicting that many Cubans will experience over 24 hours of blackout.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis and the Operation of Havana Airport
How did José Martí International Airport manage to continue operating during the blackout?
José Martí International Airport was able to continue operating during the blackout thanks to the implementation of contingency measures, which include the use of electric generators. These measures ensure that operations continue without disruptions, maintaining the functionality of the terminals despite interruptions in the National Electric System (SEN).
What are the causes of the collapse of the National Electric System in Cuba?
The collapse of the National Electric System (SEN) in Cuba is primarily due to the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant, the largest and most important in the country. Structural deterioration and lack of maintenance have led to repeated failures. Furthermore, the lack of investment in electrical infrastructure has exacerbated these issues.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has begun the gradual restoration of the National Electric System (SEN) through the creation of distributed generation islands and prioritizing electrical microsystems. Despite these measures, the lack of a clear and effective strategy remains evident, and the solutions implemented so far have been inadequate to resolve the crisis.
How has the energy crisis affected daily life in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba has forced the population to endure power outages of up to 20 hours a day, severely impacting their quality of life. The lack of electricity restricts access to food, water, and medical services, leading to a rise in social discontent and protests in various regions of the country.
Filed under: