Cuban comedian Ulises Toirac, who is also an electrical engineering graduate, has once again addressed the severe crisis plaguing the National Electric System (SEN) following a recent massive blackout that plunged the entire island into darkness for 28 hours. In a heartfelt message on his Facebook page, Toirac praised the efforts of his former colleagues in the electrical sector while highlighting the dire situation millions of Cubans face due to the government's inability to provide a reliable service.
"Another disaster in the SEN was expected. I was astonished each day, seeing the deficit numbers, that another collapse hadn't happened," he remarked. Toirac emphasized that working under current conditions requires "skill, experience, and remarkable resilience," calling those involved—linemen, repairmen, dispatch managers—"wizards" who "multiply hours and miracles" when the system fails.
"My ex-colleagues are enduring incredible hardship and deserve more than just certificates and flowers. They are not part of the problem; they are the only solution on hand," he added.
Toirac's message surfaces amid public outrage over the fifth national blackout in under a year and the second of 2025, exposing the structural decay of Cuba's energy system. The collapse began Wednesday at 9:14 am when the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, the country's largest, led to a complete grid disconnection.
Despite assurances from the Ministry of Energy and Mines that all provinces are reconnected, thousands on social media report ongoing power outages. The reconnection process has been slow, partial, and fraught with interruptions, reflecting an outdated system reliant on makeshift fixes without real investment over decades.
In an earlier post, Toirac pointed out that protections and circuits are "severely degraded," and each blackout not only means hours without electricity but also the loss of food, damage to appliances, and hospitals forced to operate under extreme conditions. "A total outage is thrice as demanding. You know what it means for homes, hospitals, sensitive facilities," he warned last March.
Previously, the actor expressed his appreciation for those striving to keep the SEN operational. "It's not that they are blameless. On the contrary, they have the courage." With his latest message, the comedian reiterates that the blame does not lie with the technicians or operators but with a government that has led the country to rely on a deteriorated electrical system on the brink of collapse.
"My respect, admiration, and embrace to all of them," Toirac concluded, showing support for those who, with enormous sacrifices, keep what little remains of the SEN alive.
Understanding Cuba's National Power Crisis
What caused the recent blackout in Cuba?
The recent blackout was triggered by the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, which led to the complete disconnection of the national grid.
How are Cuban electrical workers affected by the power crisis?
Cuban electrical workers are facing significant challenges, requiring exceptional skill and resilience, as they attempt to maintain a failing system with limited resources and support.
What is the public reaction to the power outages in Cuba?
There is widespread public outrage and frustration over the frequent power outages, highlighting the need for significant improvements and investment in Cuba's energy infrastructure.