Cuba suffers nationwide blackout as major power plant failures

Cuba suffers nationwide blackout as major power plant failures

Cuba is currently facing a widespread blackout following the failure of its primary energy plant, which has left its population of 10 million without electricity.

The energy ministry reported on social media that the power grid experienced a collapse at approximately 11:00 local time (15:00 GMT) on Friday.

Officials from the grid have stated that the timeline for restoring power remains to be determined.

After enduring months of prolonged blackouts, the prime minister announced an “energy emergency” on Thursday, highlighting the severity of the situation on the island.

On Friday, a total blackout occurred following the shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras power plant in Matanzas, which is the largest facility on the island.

President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez emphasized that the situation is his “absolute priority.”

“We will not rest until power is restored,” he stated on X.

Lazara Guerra, the head of electricity supply at the energy ministry, was quoted by the AFP news agency regarding the ongoing efforts to restore power, stating that the process is currently in its early stages.

She noted that “some level of electricity generation” would be utilized to initiate operations at power plants in various regions of the country.

On Friday, officials declared that all schools and non-essential activities, such as nightclubs, would be closed until Monday.

Authorities have called on non-essential workers to remain at home to protect the electricity supply, leading to the suspension of non-vital government services.

Local media reports that Cubans are being encouraged to turn off high-consumption appliances, including refrigerators and ovens, during peak hours.

“This is crazy,” said Eloy Fon, an 80-year-old pensioner residing in central Havana, in a statement to AFP.

“This highlights the vulnerability of our electricity infrastructure…” The country is facing a dire situation, with no reserves to rely on, leaving its citizens to navigate a precarious existence on a day-to-day basis.

Bárbara López, 47, a digital content creator, expressed that she had “barely been able to work for two days.”

“In my 47 years of experience, this is the worst I’ve encountered,” she remarked. A significant error has occurred. More power and mobile data connectivity are currently needed.

In a televised address on Thursday, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero spoke to the public, attributing the recent electricity failures to a combination of deteriorating infrastructure, fuel shortages, and increasing demand.

He stated that the fuel shortage is the primary issue at hand.

Alfredo López Valdés, the leader of the National Electric Union (UNE), has recognized that the island is grappling with a difficult energy crisis, primarily attributed to shortages.

Widespread blackouts, especially of this magnitude, create a climate of tension in Cuba.

The capacity to maintain electricity is, in part, a significant concern for the Cuban Government, as it poses potential challenges to public order.

In July 2021, a significant wave of protests erupted across the nation, with thousands taking to the streets in response to prolonged blackouts that affected large areas of the country.

The situation has become increasingly dire as valuable food supplies spoil in malfunctioning fridges and freezers. At the same time, residents endure prolonged periods without air-conditioning or ceiling fans amidst the oppressive heat of the island.

In numerous structures, electric pumps deliver water to the taps, which means that a loss of power directly results in a lack of water supply.

The absence of petrol at the pumps has significant implications, as individuals find themselves unable to commute to work or address essential issues and urgent needs that require transportation.

The Cuban Government has recognized a growing trend among the island’s residents, who appear to have diminished their fear of voicing concerns regarding the numerous daily challenges they encounter.

Some individuals are ready to mobilize and voice their dissent against the government should the circumstances warrant such action.

In March, a significant gathering of individuals took to the streets in Santiago, Cuba’s second-largest city, to express their frustrations regarding ongoing power outages and persistent food shortages.

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