The energy crisis in Cuba is deepening and strongly impacting the daily lives of millions of citizens. The Electric Union (UNE) reported that on Tuesday, June 17, the service was affected for 24 hours, and the early hours of Wednesday also passed without electricity in much of the country.
According to the official statement from UNE, the maximum impact from the previous day reached 1,763 megawatts (MW) at 9:20 p.m., right during peak hours, surpassing the planned figures due to unexpectedly high demand.
The situation remains critical this Wednesday, June 18. At 7:00 a.m., the availability of the National Electric System (SEN) was 1,810 MW, compared to a demand of 3,000 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,213 MW.
At noon, it is estimated that the impact will be 1,150 MW. At night, the situation is even more dire, as a demand of 3,500 MW is projected, with a availability of only 1,841 MW, which would imply a deficit of 1,659 MW and an estimated impact of 1,729 MW.
Not even the commissioning of 16 new photovoltaic solar parks, which generated 1,612 MWh with a peak of 412 MW on Tuesday at noon, has been enough to alleviate the burden.
Desperation, disbelief, and anger among the Cuban population
The publication of the official report from the UNE on social media was met with a wave of outrage. Dozens of users expressed their frustration over the lack of sustainable solutions and the constant repetition of unfulfilled promises.
Among the comments on the daily report from the UNE, some Cubans point out:
- "23 hours without electricity between yesterday and today, and today’s deficit is already much larger. Why the hell haven’t they decided what they should have decided a while ago?"
- "We're close to a blackout. Oh no, oh nooooo."
- "They said that solar panels were going to get better, but it has been worse."
- "Every day the SEN is in worse condition; we no longer reach 1,900 MW of availability."
- "We're getting closer to the 2,000 MW deficit."
Amid this energy chaos, calls from the population for political accountability and structural changes are also growing.
On social media, there are numerous criticisms of the Ministry of Energy and Mines, as well as calls for the resignation of its leaders. These comments highlight the social exhaustion in the face of a relentless crisis that affects all aspects of daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the current magnitude of the energy deficit in Cuba?
The current deficit in the National Electric System (SEN) of Cuba is approximately 1,213 MW, according to the latest reports from the Electric Union (UNE). This figure reflects the system's inability to meet demand, especially during peak usage times, resulting in prolonged blackouts across the country.
How is the energy crisis affecting the Cuban population?
The energy crisis is hitting the Cuban population hard, causing blackouts of up to 24 hours and leading to increasing social discontent. Citizens are facing difficulties in their daily lives, from food preservation to access to water and health, due to the lack of consistent electricity.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the energy crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to mitigate the energy crisis through the construction of new photovoltaic solar parks, which recently contributed 1,612 MWh to the system. However, this measure has been insufficient to solve the structural problems of the National Electric System, which continues to exhibit deep fragility.
What is the reaction of the Cuban population to the constant blackouts?
The Cuban population has reacted with indignation and frustration in response to the ongoing blackouts. Many citizens have voiced their discontent on social media, demanding sustainable solutions and structural changes, and questioning the management of the government and the Ministry of Energy and Mines.
What factors contribute to the collapse of the electrical system in Cuba?
The collapse of the electrical system in Cuba is due to a combination of breakdowns in thermal power plants, delayed maintenance, and fuel shortages. These issues have resulted in an outdated and poorly managed electrical infrastructure, unable to meet the country's energy demand.
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