The Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, Cuba's largest and most critical power facility, was once again disconnected from the National Electric System (SEN) this Thursday, merely a few hours after it had been synchronized. This follows a massive blackout that plunged the island into darkness for over a day. Lázaro Manuel Alonso, a journalist from Canal Caribe, confirmed the plant's latest disconnection, while the Minister of Energy and Mines sought to reassure the public by stating that the unit is once again in the process of restarting.
At 3:41 p.m., the partial return of the Guiteras plant was seen as a brief relief following the fifth major blackout in under a year and the second in 2025 alone. However, this "relief" was short-lived as the unit failed to hold and disconnected once more, leaving Cuban households in the all-too-familiar uncertainty that shadows their daily lives.
The Cycle of Power Disruptions
Plant executives explained that during the previous shutdown, more than 15 technical tasks were performed, including heater cleanings, pump adjustments, and seal repairs, which theoretically should have prevented another maintenance halt. Yet, the cycle repeats, confirming what citizens already know: electrical stability in Cuba remains a fragile illusion.
Everyday Impact on Cuban Families
For Cuban families, the failure of the Guiteras plant is not just a statistic in official reports; it is a direct blow to their daily lives. The outages mean sweltering nights without fans, spoiled food, inability to cook, and an increasing feeling that life comes to a standstill with each blackout.
The relentless cycle of outages, failed synchronizations, and unmet promises has eroded the patience of a population that no longer seeks technical explanations, but demands real solutions.
Understanding Cuba's Power Challenges
What caused the Guiteras plant to disconnect again?
Despite technical maintenance efforts, the plant's unit failed to maintain stability, resulting in another disconnection shortly after it was synchronized.
How do power outages affect daily life in Cuba?
Power outages lead to uncomfortable heat without ventilation, food spoilage, cooking challenges, and a general disruption of daily routines.
What steps are being taken to stabilize Cuba's power supply?
The government claims to perform multiple technical repairs and adjustments, yet repeated power disruptions suggest more comprehensive solutions are needed.