A truck knocks down an electric pole and causes a power outage in Alamar

An incident involving a pipeline caused a blackout in Alamar and left several areas of Havana without electricity. The energy crisis in Cuba is exacerbated by an outdated system and constant failures.

Pipe knocks down electric polePhoto © Facebook / Electric Company of Havana

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A truck knocked down an electric pole and caused a blackout in Alamar from Saturday night to early Sunday morning.

“From late at night until early this morning, with the help of local residents, a brigade from the UEB Habana del Este worked tirelessly to repair a fault caused by a tanker truck colliding with a pole in Zone 19 of Alamar, until service was restored in this area,” the Electric Company of Havana (EELH) reported on Facebook.

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Beyond the usual blackouts, Saturday was also marked by electrical incidents that further complicated the lives of the people in Havana. An explosion at an electrical substation and multiple breakdowns caused a major blackout that left several areas of Havana without electrical service.

The Electric Company of Havana reported on its official channels that the incident was caused by a shot on the 9020-9015 lines, which connect the Naranjito and Melones substations, also affecting the Talla Piedra substation, where an explosion occurred.

The authorities stated that the firefighters responded immediately to the site and are working to restore the service as soon as possible.

The municipalities most affected by this outage were Centro Habana, Habana Vieja, San Miguel del Padrón, Arroyo Naranjo, 10 de Octubre, and Cerro. Total interruptions of the electricity supply were reported in several areas.

Hours after the first report, the Electric Company also announced the unexpected outage of the Felton 1 unit, which worsened the energy situation in the capital, where the deficit exceeded 120 megawatts.

Cuba is experiencing an energy crisis that has lasted for over five years, marked by recurring outages, generation deficits, and an outdated electrical system.

Power outages have become a regular part of daily life, affecting not only the population but also essential sectors such as healthcare, transportation, and services.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Blackout in Havana and the Energy Crisis in Cuba

What caused the blackout in Alamar and other areas of Havana?

The blackout in Alamar was caused by a tanker truck colliding with an electrical pole, which resulted in a malfunction in Zone 19. Additionally, an explosion at the Talla Piedra substation and multiple failures in the electrical system contributed to a broader blackout in several areas of Havana.

What were the areas most affected by the blackout in Havana?

The municipalities most affected by the blackout were Centro Habana, Habana Vieja, San Miguel del Padrón, Arroyo Naranjo, 10 de Octubre, and Cerro. Total interruptions of the electricity supply were reported in these areas.

How does the current energy crisis affect daily life in Cuba?

The energy crisis in Cuba, which has lasted for over five years, has made power outages a regular part of daily life. These outages impact not only households but also essential sectors such as health, transportation, and services. The lack of electricity also disrupts the water supply, complicates food preservation, and adversely affects the overall quality of life.

What measures are the authorities taking to restore the electric service?

The authorities, including the Electric Company of Havana, have deployed teams to work on repairing the outages and restoring service as soon as possible. It has been reported that the service is being gradually restored, although many users are still reporting a lack of electricity in their homes.

What is the current situation of the electrical system in Cuba?

Cuba is facing a severe energy crisis with a generation deficit exceeding 120 megawatts in Havana and over 1,500 MW nationwide. This situation is a result of recurring failures, an outdated electrical system, and fuel shortages. The energy crisis has worsened in recent years, significantly impacting the population and essential services.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.