During a visit on Wednesday to the Martí municipality in Matanzas province, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez addressed residents with remarks focused on the severe impact of prolonged power outages. The president acknowledged that locals have endured power cuts lasting up to 32 hours straight, a situation that has exacerbated the everyday struggles of Matanzas inhabitants.
The Provincial Government of People's Power in Matanzas broadcast the event live on Facebook, where Díaz-Canel began by acknowledging the sacrifices of citizens amid the country's challenging circumstances. Surrounded by a significant security detail, he attributed the lengthy power interruptions to issues such as the U.S. embargo and domestic economic limitations, asserting that the government is actively addressing the energy crisis. He emphasized that national unity is crucial to overcoming these hurdles.
In an attempt to provide solutions, the president mentioned the installation of photovoltaic parks across various regions, including two in Matanzas. These are expected to contribute over 170 megawatts by mid-year and up to 1,000 megawatts by the end of 2025. Additionally, he highlighted plans for municipal self-sufficiency by boosting local agricultural production, focusing on crops like rice and beans, and revitalizing grazing lands—a promise long made by the regime without tangible results.
Díaz-Canel also commented on the criticisms emerging on social media, labeling those who question government management as "haters." He claimed that the turnout of thousands at a public event amid these conditions reflects the people's commitment to the revolutionary project.
Overall, Díaz-Canel's speech in Matanzas acknowledged the severe energy issues confronting the populace but maintained a tone familiar to many: a mix of future promises and calls for unity in the face of challenges. While the announced projects develop, Matanzas residents continue to endure extended blackouts, with the question lingering of when the much-needed changes will materialize.
The energy crisis in Cuba keeps deteriorating, significantly impacting the population, while the regime, led by Díaz-Canel, continues to promise solutions that remain unfulfilled. Despite blackouts lasting over 24 hours in some provinces, authorities persist in offering temporary fixes without addressing the root issue. In his recent address, the leader assured that the situation would improve, a pledge he has made unsuccessfully in the past.
Recent reports suggest that the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, one of the country's main facilities, is set to resume operations shortly. However, Cubans have heard similar promises before without seeing an improvement in the stability of the electrical system. Meanwhile, the Electric Union has noted a "slight improvement" in blackouts, although the reality on the ground remains dire.
In mid-February, Díaz-Canel visited Najasa, acknowledging that blackouts have exceeded 20 hours in some areas, yet he shifted the blame to external factors instead of accepting governmental responsibility. Meanwhile, Havana's Electric Company has released a schedule of planned outages affecting the entire city, leaving millions of Cubans in uncertainty.
Understanding Cuba's Ongoing Power Crisis
What is causing the prolonged power outages in Cuba?
The ongoing power outages in Cuba are attributed to a combination of factors, including the U.S. embargo, internal economic constraints, and infrastructure issues. The government claims to be working on resolving these issues, but many promises remain unfulfilled.
How are Cuban authorities planning to address the energy crisis?
Cuban authorities plan to address the energy crisis by installing photovoltaic parks to increase electricity generation and by promoting local agricultural production for self-sufficiency. However, these initiatives have yet to show concrete results.
Have past promises about improving Cuba's electrical system been fulfilled?
Past promises about enhancing Cuba's electrical system have largely not been fulfilled, with the population continuing to experience extended power outages and limited improvements in infrastructure.