The National Electric System (SEN) continues to report high levels of disruption, with no signs of improvement in electricity generation or distribution. According to the official report from the Electric Union (UNE) dated July 2, 2025, electric service remained interrupted for 24 hours on Tuesday and into the early hours of Wednesday.
The highest recorded impact was 1,672 megawatts (MW) at 9:50 p.m., coinciding with the peak demand, which exceeded the initial forecast. At 7:00 a.m., the availability of the national electrical system was 1,995 MW compared to a demand of 2,900 MW, resulting in an impact of 925 MW. By noon, the estimated impact was 880 MW.
During the peak nighttime hours, a capacity of 2,055 MW is expected, with a maximum demand of 3,550 MW. If these conditions persist, the deficit could reach 1,495 MW, with an estimated impact of up to 1,565 MW.
For several days now, the actual impact data has been greater than the forecasts released by UNE itself. On Monday, for instance, the deficit exceeded the forecast by nearly 200 MW, due to the failure to bring units online in Mariel and Nuevitas, as well as the unexpected shutdown of Energás Jaruco.
The system continues to experience multiple failures: unit 3 of the Santa Cruz CTE and unit 2 of the Felton CTE are out of service; unit 2 of Santa Cruz, unit 4 of Cienfuegos, and unit 5 of Renté are under maintenance. Thermal limitations affect 407 MW.
In addition, 99 distributed generation plants are out of service due to a lack of fuel (860 MW), and an additional 20 MW are idle due to a shortage of lubricants. Only 60 MW is expected to be recovered during peak hours.
Renewable generation also fails to meet the demand: the 18 photovoltaic solar parks generated only 1,698 megawatt-hours during the day, with a peak of 404 MW at noon.
Without relief and without hope
While the official reports reflect a critical situation in technical terms, on the streets of Cuba, the citizens' perception goes beyond the numbers: despair establishes itself as a widespread feeling in light of the worsening living conditions.
A recent report from the independent media outlet Cubanet gathers testimonies in Havana that highlight the social impact of prolonged blackouts. One woman recounted that her children had to have dinner with bread and water mixed with sugar; another interviewee stated that in provinces such as Cienfuegos, Oriente, and Sancti Spíritus, power outages have lasted more than 40 consecutive hours.
"Hope? We are lost," said a young respondent. "It's every man for himself," remarked another woman, reflecting the exhaustion and lack of expectations for improvement among the population.
In the capital, power outages last up to eight hours a day, even during the early morning. While authorities claim that the disruptions are distributed fairly and urge the public to follow official channels, citizens feel that the situation is worsening with no solutions in sight.
Summer has just begun, and with it come intensified blackouts, food shortages, and social unrest. For many Cubans, darkness is not just electrical; it is also a symbol of an increasingly uncertain future.
Frequently Asked Questions about Blackouts in Cuba
Why are blackouts in Cuba still so frequent?
The blackouts in Cuba are due to a significant deficit in electricity generation, caused by breakdowns, extended maintenance, and lack of fuel. The National Electric System (SEN) is unable to meet the growing demand, resulting in prolonged interruptions in electrical service.
What are the main causes of the energy collapse in Cuba?
The energy collapse in Cuba is due to multiple factors, including breakdowns in generation units, maintenance of power plants, and lack of fuel. Additionally, there are thermal limitations and issues with the supply of lubricants that exacerbate the situation.
How does the lack of renewable energy generation affect the electricity crisis in Cuba?
Although new photovoltaic solar parks have been installed, renewable energy generation in Cuba is not sufficient to meet the high demand for electricity. Solar power production is limited and does not significantly alleviate the electricity deficit.
What is the social impact of prolonged blackouts in Cuba?
Prolonged blackouts in Cuba generate deep social discontent, affecting the quality of life for citizens. Interruptions in electrical service impact access to food, education, and health, deepening the feelings of hopelessness among the population.
What measures are the Cuban authorities taking to address the electrical crisis?
Cuban authorities have implemented rotating blackout programs and have promoted the use of renewable energy to mitigate the electrical crisis. However, these efforts have not succeeded in resolving the generation deficit, and the situation remains critical.
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