The Cuban Electric Utility (UNE) has forecast another day of massive and prolonged power outages for its customers, informing them that this Saturday will see power cuts close to 900 megawatts (MW). "We estimate a peak hour availability of 2,380 MW and a maximum demand of 3,200 MW, resulting in a deficit of 820 MW. If the expected conditions persist, we predict an 890 MW shortfall during that period," UNE stated on its social media.
The socialist state-run company acknowledged it was unable to restore service since 10 a.m. the previous day, and as of 7 a.m. this Saturday, outages continued with 169 MW of "affectations."
On Friday, as often happens, UNE's forecast was surpassed by reality "due to higher-than-planned demand," with outages reaching 856 MW during peak hours.
The constant fluctuation of these figures remains incomprehensible to most customers, who express their anger and frustration in comments on UNE's social media posts. "We have eight to ten hours daily without electricity here in Las Tunas. Why don't they say that on TV? Day and night, day after day... months like this. There's no time for sleep or rest. How long will they continue without solving the problems, or do they expect the people to do it their way? Find solutions!" protested one user.
"People, get up, complain at the accountability Assemblies! Will the problems get resolved? Hahaha. The zero-day will come in Cuba without electricity and water. We are still 'rich.' 2025 in darkness. All of this is an ideological whim, and the common people keep paying," commented another.
"That's because they're working on a strategy to guarantee a year-end without blackouts," one user sarcastically noted. "An excellent Saturday! The one we deserve! And we're going for more," another said ironically.
"A government, beyond—and despite—external pressures, that lacks the ability to foresee, design, and implement a project to at least reduce the people's suffering and find effective alternatives in exceptional situations is an incapable government," concluded another netizen. "A government that, under extreme scarcity, does not apply an austerity plan for the ruling sphere and fails to demand that it be an example of true sacrifice, while remaining unmoved by the rampant corruption, is an immoral government," they added.
Understanding Cuba's Power Outages
Below are some frequently asked questions about the ongoing power outages in Cuba and their impact on the daily lives of its citizens.
Why is Cuba experiencing such significant power outages?
Cuba's power outages are largely due to insufficient electricity generation capacity to meet the high demand, especially during peak hours. The ongoing economic crisis and outdated infrastructure contribute to these issues.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the power shortages?
The government claims to be working on strategies to stabilize the power supply, but many citizens are skeptical about the effectiveness and timeliness of these measures, given the persistent issues.
How are Cuban citizens reacting to the power outages?
Citizens are expressing their frustration and anger on social media, criticizing the government's inability to resolve the ongoing power crisis and calling for more transparency and effective solutions.