A new testimony from Cuba has once again highlighted the energy crisis and daily life marked by blackouts. The user @darlingmores shared a 29-second video on TikTok titled "This is what a day looks like when there is electricity in Cuba," where she describes the forced routine imposed by the lack of electric and water service in many areas of the country.
"We only get electricity for 2 to 3 hours a day at most, and sometimes we go up to 24 hours without it," the creator recounted in her post. "On days when we do have electricity, since we have a lot of laundry piled up and everything is delayed, and we almost never have water, that day is chaos: you have to cook almost for the entire week, wash, clean, and scrub, and by the end of the day, you feel completely exhausted, with swollen feet, lying in bed; and the next day it feels like you’ve been beaten up badly."
The recording, which shows part of her kitchen with connected appliances, has garnered over 14,000 "likes" and hundreds of comments, including expressions of astonishment, solidarity, and also criticism. “I have become addicted to videos related to Cuba; despite the situation, I love the energy they convey,” wrote one user. Another internet user commented: “How sad that it’s like this in 2025, how can we help them?”
A reflection of the energy crisis
This video adds to other viral testimonies that document the same reality. On July 7, the user @briana_matancera recounted on TikTok: “When there’s electricity, you have to do everything at once,” while showing how she took advantage of the few hours of power to cook, wash, and take care of her child.
These everyday scenes occur amidst prolonged blackouts and historic generation deficits. Yesterday, the Unión Eléctrica reported a maximum impact of 1,799 megawatts and an immediate deficit exceeding 1,500 MW at dawn, with forecasts reaching up to 1,862 MW during peak hours, figures that confirm the collapse of the national electrical system.
The shortage of fuel, breakdowns in several thermoelectric plants, and lack of maintenance continue to exacerbate a crisis that shows no signs of improvement, while citizens face the daily uncertainty of not knowing how many hours they will have electricity or water in their homes.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Cuba
How does the energy crisis affect daily life in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba severely impacts the daily lives of its citizens. Power outages are frequent and can last up to 30 hours or more, forcing people to carry out all their activities when there is electricity. This includes cooking for multiple days, washing clothes, and completing essential household tasks in a short amount of time. The lack of electricity also affects food preservation, leading to spoilage due to the absence of refrigeration.
Why are such prolonged blackouts occurring in Cuba?
Power outages in Cuba are due to several factors. The shortage of fuel, breakdowns in thermal power plants, and the deterioration of energy infrastructure are the main causes of prolonged electricity cuts. Despite promises of improvement from the government, the situation continues to worsen, affecting both urban and rural areas.
How do Cubans adapt to the lack of electricity and water?
In the face of electricity and water shortages, Cubans have developed various adaptation strategies. Many people resort to cooking with firewood or charcoal, storing water when it is available, and multitasking during the few hours of electricity. Some also use generators, although they require fuel, which is scarce. Creativity and resilience are key to coping with these daily challenges.
What impact does the energy crisis have on food in Cuba?
The energy crisis has a significant impact on food in Cuba. The lack of electricity prevents the proper preservation of food, causing it to spoil quickly. Additionally, the scarcity of resources and high prices make it difficult to acquire food, worsening the situation of food insecurity in the country.
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