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The crisis of the National Electric System (SEN) in Cuba continues to severely affect the population, with prolonged blackouts reflecting the structural deterioration of the electrical industry, a direct result of years of poor government management.
On Friday, although the service was restored at 11:38 PM, the day ended with a maximum impact of 1238 MW at 8:00 PM, right during peak demand hours, leaving thousands of Cubans in the dark.
For this Saturday, the outlook remains alarming. At 7:00 am, the system had managed to restore service across the country, according to the report from Unión Eléctrica. However, this fragile stability does not last long: by noon, 550 MW of impact is already forecasted, with power outages expected in several provinces of the country.
The forecasts for peak hours indicate an availability of only 1970 MW against an estimated demand of 3050 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1080 MW and calculated impacts of 1150 MW.
Multiple thermoelectric units remain out of service. The Unit 2 of the Felton Thermoelectric Plant and Unit 3 of the Santa Cruz Thermoelectric Plant are currently down for repairs, while another five blocks are halted for maintenance at key plants such as Mariel, Cienfuegos, Santa Cruz, and Renté.
The incorporation of renewable energy, such as that from new solar parks in Havana, Cienfuegos, and Granma, contributes only a minimal fraction of the total needed. On Friday, 352 MWh were generated, a positive figure but insufficient given the magnitude of the crisis.
Experts have warned for years that a lack of investment, technological neglect, and poor planning by the state have led to the collapse of the Cuban electrical system. Frequent outages, combined with prolonged and poorly coordinated maintenance, reflect the government's structural inability to ensure a stable and efficient electricity service.
The Cuban population faces the daily consequences of this situation: constant service interruptions, food loss, difficulties studying or working from home, and a direct impact on hospitals, schools, and other basic services.
Meanwhile, the government continues to offer no concrete solutions or realistic timelines to resolve the crisis. Short- and medium-term projections indicate an increasingly fragile system, overwhelmed by demand that far exceeds its operational capacity.
Amid widespread deterioration, discontent is rising among citizens, who see these blackouts not just as a technical failure, but as a clear symptom of the failure of energy policies and state management that have left the country plunged into darkness, both literally and figuratively.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
Why do blackouts continue in Cuba?
The blackouts in Cuba continue due to a significant deficit in electricity generation capacity, caused by failures in several thermoelectric units, a lack of fuel, and outdated energy infrastructure. Poor planning and a lack of investment have worsened this situation, leaving the country unable to meet energy demand.
What impact do blackouts have on the daily lives of Cubans?
Power outages seriously affect the daily lives of Cubans, causing food losses, difficulties in performing daily tasks, and disruptions in essential services such as hospitals and schools. The lack of electricity also hinders studying or working from home and creates a climate of desperation among the population.
What are the main power plants affected in Cuba?
The main power plants affected in Cuba include Unit 2 of the Felton Power Plant, Unit 3 of the Santa Cruz Power Plant, and several units under maintenance at plants such as Mariel, Cienfuegos, and Renté. These breakdowns and maintenance activities impact the country's electricity generation capacity.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to restore some thermoelectric units and implement scheduled outages to distribute the impact of blackouts. However, these measures have not been sufficient to resolve the crisis, and the lack of fuel continues to be a critical obstacle to a short-term solution.
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