Images of the fire that caused a major blackout in Havana were revealed following the incident that occurred this Saturday at the Tallapiedra electrical substation, located on Avenida del Puerto in Old Havana.
The fire, recorded around 5:00 p.m., directly affected the electricity service in several municipalities of the Cuban capital, including Old Havana, Centro Habana, Cerro, 10 de Octubre, and Plaza.
According to confirmation from the authorities via Telegram, the incident occurred in an underground substation and caused a malfunction that left thousands of residents without electricity. Technicians from the Electric Company of Havana have been working since then on restoring the service.
"They are affected by a malfunction at the Tallapiedra substation due to a fire. Service will be restored as soon as possible," the authorities reported in a brief note.
The incident occurs during a critical day for the National Electric System (SEN), which had already reported a maximum estimated impact of 1,560 MW since early morning, according to data from the Electric Union (UNE).
The images shared on Facebook show columns of smoke rising from the Tallapiedra area, as well as the presence of firefighters and Electric Company workers actively engaged in efforts to manage the situation.
Power outages, which are increasingly frequent in Cuba, have sparked frustration among citizens, who do not hesitate to summarize the country's situation with a phrase that is circulating on social media: "It doesn't let up."
Frequently Asked Questions about the fire at the Tallapiedra electric substation and power outages in Cuba
What caused the blackout in Havana on April 12, 2025?
The blackout was caused by a fire at the Tallapiedra electrical substation, located in Old Havana. This incident affected several municipalities of the capital, leaving thousands of residents without electricity. Authorities and technicians from the Havana Electric Company have been working since then to restore the service.
What are the consequences of the frequent power outages in Cuba?
Frequent power outages in Cuba have generated frustration and significant difficulties among citizens. These power cuts impact basic services such as food refrigeration, water supply, and telecommunications, exacerbating the food and service crisis on the island. Furthermore, insecurity increases in areas affected by total darkness.
How is the Cuban government responding to the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has declared that it is working to restore electricity service, but it faces a deficit in power generation and issues with aging infrastructure. Despite the stated efforts, the lack of investment and maintenance has led to a persistent energy crisis that the regime has been unable to effectively resolve, generating distrust and discontent among the population.
What impact do blackouts have on the infrastructure of Havana?
Power outages have worsened the deterioration of infrastructure in Havana. The lack of electricity not only impacts daily life but also contributes to the collapse of buildings that have already been weakened by decades of neglect. This recurring problem puts the safety of residents at risk, as they face the constant threat of their homes crumbling.
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