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Cuba suffered its fourth general blackout in six months last Friday, leaving millions of people without electricity across the country and deepening the energy crisis affecting the island.
Despite the evident collapse of the National Electric System (SEN), Prime Minister Manuel Marrero limited himself to thanking the people this Monday for their "trust" that the situation will improve.
In his X account, Marrero stated: "My gratitude to our people for their trust that we will move forward, despite the challenging times we are experiencing. A recognition to the team of the Electric Union of Cuba, who worked tirelessly for the restoration of the SEN.”
His message, vigorous and energizing, ended with the same empty rhetoric as always: “We continue to fight,” accompanied by the hashtag #UnidosXCuba.
The words of the official contrast with the reality that the country is experiencing, where power outages are becoming increasingly frequent and prolonged, affecting production, transportation, communication, and the daily lives of Cubans.
While the authorities insist that a solution is being sought, the problems with the electrical infrastructure remain unresolved, and the population suffers the consequences of an inefficient and crumbling system.
Following that same official and optimistic narrative, the Cuban leader, Miguel Díaz-Canel, expressed his gratitude this Monday to the Cuban people for their "understanding" after the collapse of the National Electric System that left several provinces without power for more than 48 hours.
Far from offering concrete solutions, the president warned that the country continues to face a serious energy deficit and made it clear that power outages will persist.
"Thank you, Cuba, for your understanding during the hours of uncertainty and discomfort due to the disconnection from the SEN. And thanks to the workers and executives of the Electric Union who faced it without a moment's rest. We continue to face deficits, but we are now connected," he wrote on his X account.
Frequently asked questions about blackouts in Cuba and the energy crisis
Why is Cuba experiencing such frequent blackouts?
Cuba suffers frequent blackouts due to a lack of investment in its electrical system, the poor condition of the infrastructure, and fuel shortages. Authorities also blame the U.S. embargo, but experts indicate that the main issue is the obsolescence of the national electrical system, which has not received proper maintenance for years.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to solve the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has announced the installation of solar parks and the acquisition of parts to repair the thermoelectric plants. However, no immediate and concrete solutions have been presented to address the energy crisis, leaving the population uncertain about when the problem will be resolved.
How are power outages affecting daily life in Cuba?
Blackouts severely affect daily life in Cuba, interrupting the supply of drinking water, food refrigeration, and access to basic services. Additionally, power cuts have forced the suspension of work and educational activities, exacerbating the economic crisis already faced by Cubans.
What has been the response of the Cuban population to the blackouts?
The Cuban population has expressed its frustration and discontent through social media and protests, criticizing the government's inability to resolve the energy crisis. Many Cubans feel desperation and anger, but the fear of repression limits public demonstrations.
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