The National Electric System (SEN) started the week still trapped in the same crisis that, for months now, has been causing constant blackouts and severely limits service across Cuba.
According to the publication on Facebook by Unión Eléctrica, with official data corresponding to Monday, March 31, 2025, the generation deficit exceeds 1,300 MW, with an estimated impact of 1,430 MW, resulting in sustained outages.
At 7:00 a.m., the availability was only 1,790 MW against a demand of 2,580 MW, which left 827 MW without service in the country at that time. The maximum impact on Sunday was 1,556 MW at 7:10 p.m., coinciding with the peak demand.
Thermal power plants out of service and fuel crisis
Much of the deficit is due to breakdowns and maintenance at several key thermoelectric plants in the country. Additionally, 75 distributed generation plants are out of service due to a lack of fuel, resulting in an additional loss of 485 MW.
Although the entry of unit 6 in Nuevitas with 100 MW is anticipated, along with the partial recovery of distributed generation, the temporary solutions are insufficient to offset the structural collapse of the SEN.
Havana, also in the dark
Even the capital is not spared from the impacts. This Monday, power outages are being implemented in rotating blocks according to the following by the Electric Company of Havana.
Solar energy does not save the situation
Although the eight new solar parks synchronized this month generated 817 MW (81 MW more than anticipated), this output is still insufficient to offset the system deficit. The structural imbalance between installed capacity, technological deterioration, and fuel shortages continues to condemn the island to chronic and prolonged blackouts.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the main cause of the blackouts in Cuba?
Power outages in Cuba are primarily caused by a deficit in electricity generation due to issues in thermoelectric plants, lack of fuel, and outdated energy infrastructure. Additionally, breakdowns and prolonged maintenance in the plants further restrict the country's electricity generation capacity.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government is promoting the use of renewable energy, especially solar, in an effort to mitigate the generation deficit. However, experts warn that while these efforts are necessary, they are not enough to resolve the structural crisis of the Cuban electric system in the short term.
How does the electricity crisis affect Havana?
Havana is also affected by rolling blackouts, despite being the capital of the country. The Electric Company of Havana has implemented a schedule of planned outages in different time blocks to manage the electricity deficit, which affects both households and essential services.
What role do renewable energies play in addressing the energy crisis in Cuba?
Renewable energy, especially solar, is part of the Cuban government's strategy to tackle the energy crisis. However, the current generation capacity of solar parks is insufficient to cover the deficit, and the country's electrical infrastructure requires significant investments to achieve a real impact on the stability of the power supply.
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