Recent statements from the Cuban regime about restoring the national electrical system within three years have sparked a wave of outrage among citizens both on the island and abroad. Many have expressed their frustration and skepticism, viewing these assurances as yet another empty promise.
Comments on a CiberCuba post highlight the accumulated frustration of the population. One user lamented, "In three years, no Cuban will have mental health left. Even if they are physically present, their minds are gone." Another expressed despair, saying, "In three years, there will be no life left in this country. With no economy, food shortages, and lack of water... they better leave. We want to live and give life to our children and grandchildren. Enough of this abuse, silencing us, and living in this misery and darkness!"
Growing Distrust in Official Promises
The lack of credibility in government promises is a recurring theme: "They can't even guarantee two pounds of rice from one month to the next; how will they ensure electricity?" Some comments were starkly pessimistic or displayed a "harsh reality": "In three years, we will be dead. Only the fat cats will remain. They have everything. We'll see who will work for them; the rest of us will be corpses. Cuba is very sad, dark, and full of mosquitoes."
Other Cubans are questioning the government's management and demanding immediate changes: "We don't want more lies; we want actions and solutions. No one can endure three more years in this situation. People are dying in droves, and children are suffering. We need a thoughtful leader to provide solutions, not false hopes." One internet user added, "If they haven't done it in 65 years, they won't do it in three."
How Does the Regime Plan to Solve the Blackout Issue?
During an episode of the official program Mesa Redonda, Alfredo López Valdés, the general director of the Unión Eléctrica, outlined a plan to recover 500 megawatts (MW) of capacity over the next three years. This project relies on thermal generation using domestic fuels and renewable sources as part of a strategy to decrease dependency on imported fuel.
The official noted that by 2030, 24% of electricity will come from renewable sources such as solar photovoltaics, wind, biomass, and bioelectricity. A key part of the plan is the reconstruction of Unit 1 of the Felton thermoelectric plant, which has a capacity of 250 MW and was damaged by a fire. This will be paired with a second unit of equal capacity. Additionally, maintenance is underway at other critical plants like Renté, Nuevitas, and Mariel.
While the proposed timeline is in place, the population is asked to endure prolonged blackouts with patience, as there are no signs of short-term improvement.
Díaz-Canel Insists Overcoming the Crisis is Feasible
Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel responded to the dire situation by reiterating on social media platform X that while the electrical system is in a "grave" state, its recovery "is not impossible." He attributed the delay to the complexity of the process and the U.S. embargo, echoing the official narrative that avoids acknowledging the structural collapse of the energy system after decades of underinvestment.
"Yes, the situation of the electrical system is grave, but not impossible to overcome. Although its recovery will take time due to its complexity and the U.S. embargo's effect on accessing resources, we are working hard, and we will succeed," he wrote.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cuba's Power Crisis
Why are Cubans skeptical about the government's promises?
Cubans are skeptical due to a history of unmet government promises and the persistent issues plaguing the country, such as economic hardship and resource shortages.
What are the key components of Cuba's plan to restore electricity?
The plan involves recovering 500 MW of capacity using thermal generation with domestic fuels and renewable sources, aiming to reduce reliance on imported fuel.
How does the U.S. embargo affect Cuba's electricity recovery efforts?
The Cuban government claims the U.S. embargo complicates access to resources necessary for restoring the electrical system, although critics argue internal mismanagement is a significant factor.