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The energy crisis in the Cuban province of Pinar del Río has escalated to alarming levels. According to officials from the provincial Electric Company who spoke this Wednesday, some circuits have experienced power outages of more than 30 continuous hours, amidst a situation characterized by a lack of planning, system collapse, and the growing public discontent.
The information was confirmed by the authorities themselves through Radio Guamá, the official station of the province, in an attempt to explain the serious instability in the electric service, which has caused discontent, desperation, and outrage among the residents of the westernmost territory of the country.
Without a schedule, without relief
Unlike other provinces where there is at least an attempt to adhere to a rotating blackout schedule, in Pinar del Río there is no established timetable. Some areas experience between 18 and 20 consecutive hours without service, while in more severely affected sectors, the number exceeds 30 hours, as acknowledged by the authorities themselves.
In many cases, the service restoration lasts no more than 30 minutes before it is interrupted again.
"We do not have sufficient megawatt availability to establish a rotation of blackouts," officials explained, attributing the situation to a critical drop in national generation and an increase in electricity demand due to high temperatures.
Rising social tension
The extension of power outages has further deteriorated the daily lives of families in Pinar del Río, with severe impacts on food preservation, access to water, hospital care, and the operation of commerce and public services.
On social media, complaints are rising day by day. Citizens are reporting that they not only face endless blackouts but also a lack of information and real solutions from the authorities, who offer repeated explanations but fail to provide specific dates or tangible relief.
The situation in Pinar del Río adds to the national scenario of energy collapse, where multiple thermoelectric plants are out of service, and the country relies on temporary contracts with generating ships or imported fuels that fail to stabilize the grid.
Meanwhile, heat and darkness continue to be the norm for thousands of Cubans trapped in the endless cycle of blackouts.
Russian Energy Minister promises to modernize generating units in Cuba
Amid this serious situation, the Russian Minister of Energy, Serguéi Tsiviliov, committed to promoting the modernization of the Cuban energy system, including the construction of a new 200 megawatt (MW) generation unit and the repair of existing 100 MW blocks, as reported by media such as Telesur and News Rambler.
During the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), the plan includes: the construction of a new 200 MW generator module; major repairs of three existing power units, each with a capacity of 100 MW; and the implementation of Russian technologies, including artificial intelligence, to optimize the Cuban energy system.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Pinar del Río and Cuba
How long do power outages last in Pinar del Río?
In the province of Pinar del Río, power outages can last up to 30 continuous hours. The lack of a blackout schedule and insufficient electricity generation have contributed to this extreme situation.
Why do long-lasting blackouts occur in Cuba?
The blackouts in Cuba are due to a deficit in electricity generation, exacerbated by the collapse of thermal power plants, a lack of fuel, and an increase in demand due to high temperatures. The aging infrastructure and the lack of spare parts also play a significant role.
How does the energy crisis affect the population of Pinar del Río?
The energy crisis is severely affecting daily life in Pinar del Río, disrupting food preservation, access to water, and hospital care. Additionally, trade and public services are paralyzed, which increases dissatisfaction and frustration among residents.
What measures are the Cuban authorities taking to address the power outages?
The Cuban authorities have attempted to mitigate the energy crisis through temporary contracts with generating ships and the use of isolated microsystems in some provinces. However, these measures have not been sufficient to stabilize the national electrical system.
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