In response to the severe blackouts plaguing Cuba, the government has turned to coal sales as a temporary solution, launching this initiative in Villa Clara amidst the worsening energy crisis. "Coal is now available for purchase in Santa Clara's Popular Councils," announced Dilky Ponce, secretary of the Communist Party in the city.
Despite suggesting widespread availability, Alexander Reyes Barreto, the Vice Mayor responsible for food production and distribution in Santa Clara, clarified on the local Estereocentro station that sales are currently limited to a location known as "la Coca-Cola." He added that, weather permitting, coal would also be sold at the José Martí fair this Sunday.
Reyes Barreto disclosed that the price of a can of coal ranges from 300 to 350 Cuban pesos. Images shared by officials and state media demonstrate the public’s reliance on coal, as citizens struggle with the massive blackout that began Friday and remains unresolved by authorities.
With electricity crucial for cooking and gas shortages exacerbating the crisis, the demand for coal has surged, especially on social media platforms. Facebook, in particular, is flooded with posts from individuals desperately seeking coal.
Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada has reported long lines forming in Santiago de Cuba as residents scramble to secure this essential resource during prolonged power outages.
Since mid-month, Pinar del Río province has ramped up coal production to aid families enduring power cuts exceeding 15 hours daily. The local TV station Tele Pinar reported that coal has become a vital resource for cooking in Vueltabajo communities.
Even before the nationwide electrical system collapse, the Provincial Government of Las Tunas had directed the sale of coal. According to Fidel Gordo Escobar, the coordinator for Programs and Objectives of the Provincial Government of People's Power, coal distribution efforts are focused on urban settlements in this eastern Cuban territory.