On Saturday, April 5, Cuba is bracing for even more severe blackouts according to the official report from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE). The utility predicts a peak shortage of 1,635 MW, surpassing the actual deficit reported on Friday, which had already exceeded planned levels.
The latest report indicates that the island has experienced continuous electricity disruptions over the last 24 hours, reaching a peak shortage of 1,727 MW at 8:10 p.m. on Friday. This figure was higher than the 1,619 MW forecasted the day before, casting doubt on the reliability of reports issued by the UNE, a state-run entity noted for its lack of transparency and data manipulation.
Saturday's outlook remains grim: as of 7:00 a.m., the National Electric System (SEN) had an available capacity of 1,755 MW against a demand of 2,800 MW, resulting in a shortfall of 1,068 MW. By noon, an impact of 1,180 MW is anticipated, and during the evening peak, the forecast indicates a demand of 3,450 MW with only 1,885 MW available, leading to a deficit of 1,565 MW and an estimated impact of 1,635 MW.
Power generation is severely constrained due to the shutdown of seven thermal units—two due to breakdowns in Nuevitas and Felton and five undergoing maintenance. Additionally, a fuel shortage has left 75 distributed generation plants (565 MW) inoperative. Although eight solar photovoltaic parks were added, producing 1.004 MWh on Friday, their contribution remains insufficient amid the system's collapse.
The regime's lack of transparency and systematic data manipulation hinder an accurate assessment of the crisis affecting millions of Cubans. Official forecasts rarely underplay the situation. Instead, the real impact is often worse, as seen on Friday, suggesting Saturday's blackouts could exceed announced figures, plunging the population into another day of uncertainty and hardship.
Recent Power Failures in Havana
On Friday, multiple areas in Havana were left without electricity due to a failure at the Cuatro Caminos Substation in the Cotorro municipality. The capital's Electric Company reported the interruption was caused by a high-power transformer breakdown at the substation, affecting the Cuatro Caminos, Santa Amelia, and La Portada districts, along with surrounding areas. Officials assured they were working to replace the damaged equipment and would remain on-site until the power was restored.
Official Statements and Public Reactions
In response to the high energy deficit and fears of a massive blackout, the Electric Company denied such an event would occur again, stating that disruptions would follow the planned schedule in each province given the current generation shortfall. However, this statement drew criticism from the public, who voiced their dissatisfaction on social media. One user remarked that the outages are a thoroughly planned phenomenon by the regime. Others noted that despite denying the possibility of a widespread blackout, provinces are experiencing prolonged power cuts.
Cuba's energy situation remains dire, with blackouts severely impacting daily life. Official declarations attempt to downplay the crisis's severity, but the reality on the ground reflects deep dissatisfaction and mistrust towards the authorities responsible for the country's electrical management.
Understanding Cuba's Power Crisis
What is causing the severe power outages in Cuba?
The severe power outages in Cuba are primarily due to the shutdown of several thermal units, a shortage of fuel, and the resulting inoperability of multiple distributed generation plants. This is compounded by unreliable forecasts and data manipulation by state entities.
How are the power outages affecting daily life in Cuba?
The power outages are significantly disrupting daily life in Cuba, affecting everything from household activities to public services and economic operations. The lack of reliable electricity exacerbates the already challenging living conditions on the island.