Davielquis Cortina Cobas, who oversees the provincial load dispatch at the Empresa Eléctrica Holguín, has acknowledged a grim reality that residents are all too aware of: Holguín teeters on the brink of collapse with power outages stretching close to 18 hours a day. The provincial grid is struggling to meet even half the required capacity.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Cortina confirmed that Holguín is operating at its "maximum outage capacity," and in many instances, scheduled power rotations can no longer be maintained. Of the 210 megawatts (MW) historically allocated for May, only 165 MW are available for residential use, with 45 MW prioritized for sectors like nickel industry, tourism, and water supply, according to the provincial newspaper ¡Ahora!
Cortina explained that the "maximum load capacity is 130 MW," and warned that "if demand exceeds 150 MW, power supply cannot be guaranteed." Despite planning efforts to address demand, the ongoing capacity shortfall renders maintaining usual rotations unfeasible.
Struggles with Rationing and Heat
The current strategy involves severe rationing. The company enforces service interruptions lasting up to 18 hours within a 24-hour period, ensuring no circuit is without power for more than nine consecutive hours. Nighttime rotations occur at 9:00 p.m., attempting to distribute the limited electricity, although the available energy is insufficient for a consistent or predictable schedule.
As residents cope with sweltering heat and shortages, official plans mention "three hours of electricity daily during crises," which feels more like a dire warning than a solution. Nevertheless, Cortina stressed the importance of efficient planning by residents to make the most of the limited electrical supply.
Hope for Solar Energy Expansion
Summer has driven up electricity demand, particularly in the afternoon. The provincial peak hits around 6:00 p.m., while the national peak occurs later, necessitating further adjustments to an already weakened local distribution plan.
Looking ahead, the expansion of solar energy offers a glimmer of hope, with current national capacity at approximately 560 MW and projections aiming for 700 MW. This growth could alleviate daytime disruptions, although no specific timelines or immediate impacts for Holguín were provided.
Wider Implications of the Energy Crisis
Cuba's electrical infrastructure remains mired in a severe structural crisis, with prolonged outages affecting citizens day and night. According to a report from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE) on May 14, the country experienced an electrical shortfall of 1,460 MW the previous day, a figure consistently above 1,400 MW for several days.
In recent months, complaints from residents across various provinces, where daily outages often exceed 20 hours, have surged in media and social networks. Some citizens allege that the government conceals its inability to secure fuel to sustain services, while others claim the energy crisis serves as a tool for state control.
In contrast, Havana experiences relatively shorter outages compared to other provinces, and the Empresa Eléctrica generally avoids service interruptions during early morning hours. However, recent reports suggest this disparity has narrowed.
In the first quarter of 2025, Holguín saw a notable increase in crimes against the National Electric System (SEN), impacting both residents and state facilities. Yet, beyond reported criminal activities, many citizens view the lack of investment and maintenance in the electrical system as the primary cause of the outages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Holguín's Power Crisis
What is the maximum power capacity for Holguín?
The maximum load capacity for Holguín is 130 MW, but the demand often exceeds 150 MW, leading to power outages.
How long are the power outages in Holguín?
Power outages in Holguín can last up to 18 hours within a 24-hour period, with efforts to ensure no circuit is without power for more than nine consecutive hours.
What sectors are prioritized for power in Holguín?
Sectors such as the nickel industry, tourism, and water supply are prioritized, receiving 45 MW of the province's power allocation.