Cuba is facing a severe energy crisis with blackouts in some regions exceeding 20 hours a day, and President Miguel Díaz-Canel insists that his government is not to blame.
The regime's representative stated on national television that he is not responsible for the situation, arguing that "there is no money" to solve the problem.
The Ministry of Energy and Mines (Minem) reported that oil production in Cuba only meets one-third of national consumption, with approximately 40,000 barrels per day.
In 2024, production fell by 138,000 tons due to a lack of funding and material resources.
The sector minister, Vicente de la O Levy, indicated that the oil bill is the country's highest expense and that more than half of the available fuel is allocated to electricity generation.
Despite the energy crisis, the government has continued to prioritize investment in the tourism sector over public health and social assistance.
According to official data, this trend has persisted in recent years, leading to criticism both inside and outside the island.
The Cuban government has declared that it seeks to reform the National Electric Power System (SEN) and reduce its dependence on imported fuels; however, it has not been clear about the cost of renewable energy, which many experts believe is unsustainable for the island.
The leader also did not mention that his government has decided to invest in the construction of hotels and tourism infrastructure instead of allocating resources to address crucial issues such as the energy crisis or housing.
For many economists like Pedro Monreal, the energy crisis in Cuba is a political decision, as the government has postponed investments in that sector to prioritize other matters
The energy crisis has severely impacted the Cuban economy. In 2023, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contracted by 1.9% and showed no signs of growth in 2024, according to official figures. Power outages have caused disruptions in production, further affecting the already weakened economy of the country.
In addition, power outages have been a key factor in the outbreak of protests against the government. The lack of electricity has catalyzed demonstrations such as those on July 11, 2021 — the largest in decades — those in 2022 in Havana and Nuevitas, and the recent protests on March 17 in Santiago de Cuba and other towns.
As the crisis deepens and social discontent grows, the Cuban government faces increasing scrutiny over its investment priorities and its ability to manage the energy crisis affecting millions of citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
Why doesn't Díaz-Canel's government resolve the blackouts in Cuba?
The Díaz-Canel government argues that the shortage of foreign currency and the scarcity of fuel are the main reasons for the blackouts in Cuba. However, critics point out that the real cause is poor management and lack of investment in the electrical system, while sectors such as tourism are prioritized.
What impact do blackouts have on the daily lives of Cubans?
Power outages in Cuba interrupt essential services such as electricity, water, and healthcare, generating discontent and protests in various regions of the country. The lack of electricity severely impacts the economy and quality of life, increasing social unrest.
How do investments in tourism impact the energy crisis in Cuba?
The Cuban government has invested significantly more in tourism than in energy infrastructure, which has contributed to the collapse of the electrical system. This policy has been criticized for prioritizing a sector with low utilization while neglecting essential services for the population.
What role do renewable energies play in solving the Cuban energy crisis?
Renewable energies currently represent only 4% of the electricity generated in Cuba. Although the government has announced plans to expand this sector, the lack of investment and outdated infrastructure hinder significant progress in the short term.
What is the future outlook on the energy crisis in Cuba?
The short- and medium-term outlook for the energy crisis in Cuba is discouraging, as the solutions proposed by the government, such as modernizing plants and investing in renewable energy, are not feasible without adequate funding. This creates uncertainty about when electricity supply on the island will stabilize.
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