In the early hours of Wednesday, Cuba's National Electric System (SEN) experienced a collapse, leaving millions in the dark, including renowned contemporary art critic Jorge de Mello. Expressing his frustration, Mello remarked, "We live in a country where the only thing that hasn't collapsed is the government."
Mello shared his thoughts on Facebook, admitting that the news "doesn't surprise me." This sentiment is understandable given that it's the third massive blackout to hit the island in just two months. He recounted how his morning began in the cold darkness, awakened at 4:50 a.m. by his dog, who seemed unsettled by the chilly air.
Without electricity or internet, Mello had to bundle up and use a rechargeable lamp to make coffee, while trying to grasp the magnitude of the situation. Later, as partial connectivity returned, he learned that the temperature in Havana was 54°F (12°C), with the SEN's collapse once again plunging millions into darkness.
Frequent SEN Failures Highlight Cuba's Energy Crisis
This latest SEN failure, the third since October 18th, underscores the severe crisis facing Cuba's electrical grid. The Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant in Matanzas has been a key player in these incidents, plagued by structural deterioration and maintenance challenges.
In response to the widespread outage that began early this morning, the Cuban government suspended classes and non-essential work across the nation. Cienfuegos radio station "Radio Ciudad del Mar" announced a halt in attendance at childcare centers, stating that further information regarding internal centers would be provided later.
Government's Response and Future Outlook
The Ministry of Energy and Mines (MINEM) later communicated via social media that efforts to gradually restore the SEN were underway, creating isolated power zones by territory, similar to previous collapses. In a post on MINEM's X account, Vicente de la O Levy noted that "conditions are more favorable than during the last disconnection”—a statement offering little comfort to a population weary of power outages. He emphasized that procedural adherence was not hindered by any hurricane.
Understanding Cuba's Power Crisis
What caused the recent blackout in Cuba?
The blackout was caused by a collapse of the National Electric System (SEN), which has been attributed to the deteriorating condition of power plants like the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant.
How has the Cuban government responded to the blackout?
The Cuban government has suspended classes and non-essential work, and the Ministry of Energy and Mines is working to restore power through isolated zones.
Why is the Antonio Guiteras Power Plant significant?
The Antonio Guiteras Power Plant is significant because it has been a major factor in recent power failures due to its structural issues and maintenance difficulties.