Amid a persistent energy crisis, ships loaded with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) have arrived at the Cuban shores but have been unable to begin the unloading process.
The main cause, according to reported in a news piece by National Television News (NTV), is the lack of fulfillment in the payments required to authorize the operation, a problem that is recurrent in Cuba.
Once these payments are completed, the national distribution of fuel is expected to begin within 48 hours, according to Irenaldo Pérez Cardoso, deputy director of Unión Cuba Petróleo (CUPET).
CUPET assures that it has all the logistics ready to proceed with the reception, unloading, and distribution of LPG.
The Cuban regime claims that its bases in the western, central, and eastern regions would be ready to receive shipments as soon as the cargo is released.
However, the fundamental reason why the LPG ships have not been able to start unloading is economic: until the stipulated payments with the international suppliers are finalized, the ships cannot unload their cargo.
This financial bottleneck not only impacts the immediate availability of fuel but also exacerbates an energy situation that has already lasted more than 50 days in some provinces of the country, according to official reports.
Partial advances from national production
At the same time, the Cuban government has sought to reactivate its internal productive capacity.
The Cienfuegos Refinery has resumed operations following an extensive maintenance period, according to the mentioned executive.
Thanks to technological innovations and the recovery of key components in the filling plant, small reserves of liquefied gas have been achieved, primarily intended for hospitals, strategic socioeconomic centers, and the population of the central region.
These improvements include the rehabilitation of the pumping system and hydrogen compressors, which are essential for both gasoline production and LPG.
However, the volumes obtained through this means are limited and are not sufficient to supply the entire country.
The regime also claims to have the supply from the Energás plant in Puerto Escondido, although this source does not meet the national demand either.
Specific cases of recovery: Matanzas
In Matanzas, authorities announced that starting May 19, the sale of LPG will resume at specific locations.
The Bellamar point of sale will be the first to operate with 200 cylinders available, managed through the digital platform "Mi Turno."
Access, at least in this initial stage, will be restricted to consumers registered since November 15, 2024.
The plan anticipates a gradual expansion to other distribution points within the city, as long as the supply stabilizes.
This initiative reflects the government's commitment to organizing a systematic and equitable distribution of the product, although it also highlights the scarcity that the country is facing.
An energy crisis with no structural solution in sight
Despite the optimistic announcements about logistical and technological advancements, the situation remains critical.
The shortage of liquefied gas has forced many families to resort to alternative methods for cooking, some of which pose health and safety risks.
According to official reports, the shortage of LPG is due to a combination of causes, among which the following stand out:
-Decline in imports due to financial and trade limitations.
-Logistical problems stemming from a lack of currency to complete international payments.
-Reduction in national refining, which has only begun to recover partially.
Although progress has been made in infrastructure and processes, the lack of a structural and sustained solution makes recovery uncertain. The government itself has acknowledged that the normalization of services will not be immediate.
Expectations and uncertainty
Authorities urge the public to stay informed through official channels and to comply with the regulations in place for the purchase of LPG.
The main message is one of patience, although the daily reality for thousands of Cubans is becoming increasingly complicated.
The arrival of the ships carrying liquefied gas represents an important opportunity, but the outcome still depends on the Cuban state’s ability to honor its financial commitments.
Meanwhile, the energy shortage continues to impact the daily lives of millions of citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Liquefied Gas Crisis in Cuba
Why have liquefied gas vessels been unable to unload in Cuba?
The main reason why liquefied gas vessels have been unable to discharge is the lack of completion regarding the required payments to authorize the operation. This issue is recurrent in Cuba and affects the immediate availability of fuel, worsening the energy crisis that has already lasted more than 50 days in some provinces.
What impact does the scarcity of liquefied gas have on Cuban households?
The shortage of liquefied gas has a severe impact on Cuban households, forcing many families to resort to alternative cooking methods, such as using firewood or charcoal. These methods are costly and pose health and safety risks to individuals.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to resolve the liquefied gas crisis?
The Cuban government has tried to revive domestic production and has managed the arrival of ships carrying liquefied gas to alleviate the situation. However, the solutions implemented are temporary and do not meet national demand, which keeps the energy crisis in a critical state.
How is liquefied gas being distributed in Cuba amid the shortage?
The distribution of liquefied gas is being prioritized for hospitals, strategic centers, and specific regions such as Matanzas. Sales are conducted through digital platforms and physical delivery at specific points, although coverage remains limited.
What do citizens think about the government's handling of the liquefied gas crisis?
Many citizens have expressed their discontent and frustration with the government's management of the liquefied gas crisis. They consider the proposed solutions to be insufficient and feel that everyday difficulties are becoming unsustainable.
Filed under: