On Tuesday, Cuba endured one of the most severe power outages of the year, as blackouts spread across the nation with a shortfall exceeding 2,000 megawatts (MW), signaling the collapse of the National Electric System (SEN). According to the official report from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), the peak shortfall reached 2,010 MW at 9:10 PM, surpassing initial forecasts of 1,872 MW.
The UNE attributed the increased deficit to technological limitations at CTE Céspedes unit 3 and the unexpected shutdown of unit 6 at CTE Renté. These issues add to a long list of plants already offline due to breakdowns or maintenance. However, the public has grown skeptical of the technical explanations offered by the government to justify the persistent power shortages.
As of 6:00 AM on Wednesday, the SEN had only 1,680 MW available to meet a demand of 3,050 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,418 MW. The midday forecast predicts an even larger shortfall of 1,550 MW. During the evening peak, although partial contributions from Renté (50 MW), Mariel (95 MW), and engines on the Regla barge (48 MW) are anticipated, the deficit is expected to remain overwhelming, with a predicted shortfall of 1,788 MW and an impact of 1,858 MW.
System Strain and Public Frustration
The outages stem from five malfunctioning thermal units, three undergoing maintenance, 294 MW restricted due to thermal limits, and fuel shortages keeping 63 distributed generation plants offline, as well as some floating barges. The glaring lack of investment in energy maintenance sharply contrasts with the lavish spending on tourist megaprojects. Meanwhile, Cubans, weary of empty promises, are once again left to endure a day without electricity, leaving hospitals, schools, and homes in dire conditions. The energy crisis has become a stark symbol of the inefficiency of Miguel Díaz-Canel's regime.
Recurring Record Deficits
This Tuesday's maximum deficit of 2,010 MW not only far exceeded UNE's expectations but also marked one of the three largest power crises so far in 2025. This level of shortfall was only surpassed twice earlier in 2025, both incidents occurring in July. On July 22, the electric system collapsed under a record deficit of 2,054 MW, while on July 15, it reached 2,020 MW, as reported by the UNE and documented by CiberCuba.
Despite the introduction of new renewable sources, such as solar parks, and significant investments in tourism infrastructure, generation levels continue to fall short of meeting the country's basic demand. The repeated occurrence of deficits over 2,000 MW shows that the system operates on the brink of a permanent collapse, lacking technical reserves and operational stability. For Cubans, who face daily blackouts lasting up to 18 hours, this latest blackout is merely another chapter in an ongoing electrical nightmare that seems never-ending.
Another Dark Night in Havana
Havana's Electric Company confirmed via social media that power service was cut off at 8:05 PM on Tuesday and had not been restored by the end of their statement. The blackout in the capital reached a maximum impact of 159 MW at 9:10 PM. Even the reserve block (B1) and circuits not associated with known blocks were affected, illustrating the operational decay of the system in the capital.
Additionally, the official blackout schedule for Wednesday, August 6, and the early hours of the 7th was published, indicating rotating outages for all blocks—including the reserve block—from 10:00 AM to 10:00 AM the next day. The company reminded the public that blackouts might extend beyond the planned duration due to emergency causes.
FAQs on Cuba’s Ongoing Power Crisis
What is causing the repeated power outages in Cuba?
The repeated power outages are primarily due to a combination of technical failures, maintenance issues, and fuel shortages affecting the National Electric System (SEN). Additionally, the lack of investment in energy infrastructure exacerbates the situation.
How are Cubans coping with the power crisis?
Cubans are facing daily blackouts lasting up to 18 hours, impacting their daily lives, including critical services like hospitals and schools. Many are frustrated with the government’s explanations and promises, which they see as insufficient and unconvincing.
Has the Cuban government taken any steps to address the power deficit?
While there have been investments in new renewable energy sources and infrastructure, these efforts have not been enough to meet the country’s basic energy demands. The focus on tourism projects is seen as neglecting essential energy infrastructure improvements.
What is the future outlook for Cuba’s energy situation?
The future outlook remains bleak without significant changes in investment and management of the energy infrastructure. The system operates close to collapse, and without technical reserves or stability, the crisis is likely to continue.