Blackout Hits Western Cuba, Millions Left Without Power
A significant power outage swept across western Cuba on Wednesday, impacting millions as the nation faces ongoing fuel challenges. The U.S. Embassy reported that at around 12:41 p.m., the national electric grid experienced a complete failure, affecting areas from Camagüey to Pinar del Río, including the greater Havana region.
The Embassy noted that Cuba’s electric grid is becoming increasingly unstable, leading to frequent power outages that disrupt everyday life. These outages affect essential services such as water supply, lighting, refrigeration, and communication, prompting officials to urge residents to conserve resources and prepare for continued disruptions.
The blackout was attributed to an unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, located about 62 miles from Havana. Recovery efforts may take at least three days, according to local reports.
Vicente de la O Levy, Cuban Minister of Energy and Mines, stated that they are working to restore the energy supply amid a challenging situation. He mentioned that at least one power plant, Felton 1, is still operational.
Despite the outages, some businesses and traffic lights managed to operate due to solar panels and backup generators. Many residents have turned to solar energy solutions for electricity as fuel prices continue to rise.
Cuba has struggled with power outages in recent years, largely due to an aging electrical infrastructure and chronic fuel shortages. The situation worsened in January after U.S. military action impacted Venezuelan oil exports, cutting off a crucial fuel supply for the island.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has stated that his government will not negotiate with Washington to address these issues, even as the U.S. tightens its grip on the island’s energy resources.
