Cuba’s Power Crisis Worsens With One More Grid Collapse

Cuba’s electricity crisis intensified on Wednesday after a major grid collapsed following the failure of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant in Matanzas Province.

This incident marks the third such blackout in two months, underscoring the country’s deepening energy challenges.

The Ministry of Energy and Mines reported that the collapse of the national grid left millions without power, including the capital, Havana, which was almost entirely in darkness.  Only a few large hotels and government buildings remained illuminated before dawn.

Cuba’s reliance on aging thermoelectric plants, primarily powered by crude oil, has made its energy infrastructure vulnerable.

The country’s energy woes are compounded by a significant reduction in fuel imports from key allies such as Venezuela, Russia, and Mexico.

This decline has led to daily power outages, severely impacting the nation’s economy and quality of life.

Natural disasters have further strained the electrical system. In November, Hurricane Rafael caused extensive damage, triggering another nationwide blackout and exacerbating the already fragile energy network.

The cumulative effect of these challenges has led to widespread public dissatisfaction. In November alone, there were at least 200 protests related to power failures.

The ongoing energy crisis has disrupted daily life, leading to the suspension of classes and work, and has intensified the country’s economic hardships.