In recent hours, Cuba's national power grid has faced significant challenges after a malfunction at Energas led to the shutdown of the Boca de Jaruco plant, resulting in increased blackouts across the island. The unexpected outage triggered automatic shutdowns in several circuits nationwide, as reported by journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso.
Two hours after Alonso's announcement, which heightened public frustration, the Ministry of Energy and Mines (MINEM) offered an explanation. "A fault in one of Energas's output lines and the subsequent trip of the other two led to the Boca de Jaruco plant going offline, causing a rise in power disruptions," stated a note on MINEM's Facebook page.
The statement also mentioned that four gas turbines are back in operation, with a fifth and the steam turbine expected to follow gradually. As of the time of this report, no further official updates have been provided.
However, public discontent is evident with numerous comments criticizing the recurring issues with Cuba's electrical system. Comedian Luis Silva expressed the nation's frustration on Facebook, saying, "It's one bad news after another. What a misfortune this nation has to endure!"
Adding to the discontent, a commentator suggested that recent measures by ETECSA, which limit internet consumption paid in Cuban pesos, are a distraction from more pressing issues. "Realize that they are manipulating and psychologically using you to divert attention from the real problems," they remarked, implying that the ongoing blackouts are a more significant issue.
Public Reaction and Unrest
In parts of the capital, which is less accustomed to prolonged nighttime outages compared to the provinces, some residents resorted to banging pots and pans in protest. Such demonstrations were reported in areas like Línea and 12 in El Vedado, Havana, and in Alamar, located in the municipality of Habana del Este.
The full extent of the power disruptions remains to be seen. According to the forecast released yesterday by the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), the anticipated capacity was 1,530 MW, a figure likely to be exceeded following the latest developments.
Understanding Cuba's Power Crisis
What caused the power outages in Cuba?
The outages were triggered by a fault in Energas's output lines, which led to the shutdown of the Boca de Jaruco plant and automatic shutdowns in various circuits across the country.
How did the government respond to the blackout situation?
The Ministry of Energy and Mines explained the situation on social media, stating that four gas turbines are back in service, with more expected to come online soon.
How are Cubans reacting to the ongoing power issues?
There is widespread frustration and criticism among the Cuban populace, with some resorting to public protests, such as banging pots and pans, particularly in areas not used to frequent outages.