The distribution of manufactured gas, commonly referred to as street gas, has been halted in various districts of Havana, according to a statement from the city's government. "A malfunction in the main electrical circuit at Plant #2 is impacting the gas service to the Playa-Marianao network," the governmental body reported. They further noted that collaboration with the Electrical Company and GEYSEL is underway to restore the service as swiftly as possible.
Despite the Havana Electrical Company's announcement around 2 p.m. on Sunday that power had been restored to 67 circuits in the area, another collapse of the National Electrical System (SEN) has jeopardized the few operational services remaining in the country. The widespread blackout, coupled with a shortage of cooking fuel, has exacerbated anxiety among the populace, who have watched helplessly as their scarce food supplies spoil in household refrigerators.
Across several Cuban provinces, alternative strategies have been adopted to cope with the severe energy and fuel crisis gripping the nation. Starting Saturday afternoon, Santa Clara initiated the sale of charcoal as an alternative means for cooking.
However, after more than 48 hours without electricity, frustration is mounting in Cuban towns and cities. This past Saturday, residents in the capital resorted to banging pots in protest, while demonstrators took to the streets in Santiago de Cuba.