The Cuban regime assured this Friday afternoon that there will be no complete disconnection of the National Electric System (SEN), in an attempt to dispel rumors circulating on social media about a possible general blackout amid a significant energy deficit in the country.
In a statement published on the social media pages of the Ministry of Energy and Mines of Cuba, the regime declared: "There will be no general blackout in Cuba."
The message comes after the circulation of posts on social media and private messages containing "alarmist versions" about a supposed nationwide blackout or a total disconnection from the SEN.
"These rumors are false and baseless, defended the governmental body, which is facing severe criticism for its poor handling of the energy crisis."
According to their explanation, due to the current deficit in energy generation, "scheduled disruptions in the electrical service" are being implemented in various areas of the country to prevent a widespread collapse of the system.
It is about "temporary and organized interruptions" that allegedly aim to balance demand with the available capacity.
"These measures are a technical response to the lack of fuel, maintenance of power plants, and other limitations inherent to the current energy scenario, a consequence of the United States government's measures against Cuba," the regime claimed, urging people not to believe the rumors as they seek to "create unnecessary panic."
"Messages about a total blackout cause anxiety and misinformation, complicating the organized management of the situation. They divert attention from official channels: Only UNE and its authorized platforms (website, social media profiles, and state media) provide accurate and updated information on affected times and areas. They undermine the credibility of institutions: Sharing unverified information erodes technical and communication efforts to address the crisis," they stated.
Dozens of internet users questioned what credibility they were referring to when they had already lost it some time ago.
Just before the message from the MINEM, several neighborhoods in Havana experienced a blackout on Friday afternoon due to a malfunction at the Cuatro Caminos Substation in the Cotorro municipality.
The Electric Company of the capital announced on social media that the power outage was due to a failure in the high voltage transformer at the substation, which affected the Cuatro Caminos, Santa Amelia, and La Portada Popular Councils, as well as surrounding areas.
The concern over the high energy deficit and the fear of another massive blackout in Cuba have led the Electric Company to deny that this situation could occur again.
"It is FALSE that there will be a total disconnection of SEN in Cuba. The impacts will continue according to the plan in each province and the current generation deficit," they stated on Facebook. However, an internet user noted that this statement from the company showed that "the disconnections are a completely planned phenomenon" by the regime.
According to the official report from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE) this Friday, April 4, it was projected that for the nighttime peak a demand of 3,450 MW and a availability of 1,840 MW were expected, which would imply a deficit of 1,610 MW and an estimated impact of 1,680 MW.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
Will there be a blackout in Cuba?
No, the Cuban regime has assured that there will be no nationwide blackout in Cuba. Despite the significant energy deficit and scheduled outages, the government claims that these measures are intended to prevent a total collapse of the National Electric Power System (SEN).
What causes blackouts in Cuba?
Blackouts in Cuba are caused by a significant deficit in energy generation, due to a lack of fuel, the maintenance of power plants, and outdated electrical infrastructure. This deficit necessitates scheduled outages in various areas to balance demand with available generation capacity.
How does the energy crisis affect daily life in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba affects daily life by limiting access to basic services such as electricity, water, and even the internet. Prolonged power outages also impact education and work, as classes and non-essential activities are suspended, leading to significant social unrest.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government is implementing scheduled interruptions and the creation of microsystems to manage the energy deficit. However, these measures have been criticized for their lack of effectiveness and clarity, as the population continues to face prolonged blackouts and no long-term solutions.
What do Cubans think about the government's handling of the energy crisis?
Many Cubans criticize the government for its inefficiency and lack of concrete solutions to the energy crisis. The population demands investments in infrastructure and efficient management, as the current strategy of constant repairs has not improved the situation. Furthermore, there is a widespread sense of distrust toward official statements.
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