Outrage erupted across social media platforms as Havana experienced a massive, unscheduled power outage that plunged nearly the entire province into darkness from 5:00 p.m. on Thursday. This marks the second significant failure of the electrical system in less than 24 hours. Although the Electric Union (UNE) initially remained silent, it later revealed that the malfunction impacted several 110 kV substations, including Naranjito, Apolo, Melones, San Agustín, and Talla Piedra, resulting in widespread blackouts across most of the capital's municipalities. The critical energy supply units at Melones were also knocked offline.
The blackout left thousands of families without electricity or water. While neighborhoods like Alamar still had power, most of the city was left in darkness, heat, and the deafening silence from authorities, fueling residents' frustration. "This is criminal, a psychological war designed to exhaust the people," one Facebook user lamented.
Public Outcry and Frustration
"All day, we're on edge waiting for water, electricity, and wondering what we'll eat... It's like a concentration camp," another user added. Others responded with sarcasm or resignation. One quipped, "God gives his toughest battles to his strongest warriors," while adding, "I'm ready for insults."
Across platforms like X and Facebook, hundreds of Havana residents expressed their physical and emotional exhaustion, demanding answers. "I'm fed up with this nonsense... find a solution already! How am I supposed to cook for my son?" a frustrated mother commented on a post about the outage by CiberCuba.
Government Response and Power Deficit
The Ministry of Energy and Mines confirmed the severity of the incident, which even led to the shutdown of key power plants such as Mariel, Boca de Jaruco, and Energás Varadero, causing an estimated loss of 400 MW. Additionally, the thermoelectric plant Antonio Guiteras in Matanzas remains offline, with a potential return to service by Friday.
Cuba faced a record power deficit of 2,065 MW on Thursday, leading to continuous blackouts for at least 12 hours nationwide. The Havana Electric Company announced a new redistribution of power interruption blocks to "balance the load," which means areas previously less affected will now endure prolonged outages as well.
Meanwhile, thousands of Havana residents remain without access to potable water due to halted pumping systems caused by the power shortage. With no immediate solution in sight, public frustration continues to mount. "Havana can't take it anymore," is a recurring sentiment in numerous posts.
Understanding the Power Crisis in Havana
What caused the power outage in Havana?
The outage was caused by a malfunction at multiple 110 kV substations, including Naranjito, Apolo, Melones, San Agustín, and Talla Piedra, which led to simultaneous blackouts across the city.
How are residents coping with the power outages?
Residents are expressing their frustrations and exhaustion on social media, demanding solutions from the authorities. Many are struggling with the lack of electricity and water, which affects their daily lives significantly.
What actions are being taken to resolve the power crisis?
The government is attempting to balance the power load by redistributing power interruption blocks. However, this means that areas previously less affected will now experience longer outages.