The residents of Havana are grappling with intensified power outages as the capital teeters on the edge of a complete blackout due to a significant shortfall in electricity generation and the unavailability of several power units. The Havana Electric Company announced on its official Facebook page that the current situation has disrupted the planned schedule and left units 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6 offline, resulting in a 200 MW power deficit in the city.
Citizens are urged by the company to stay updated via its official social media channels and the customer service number 18888. Nonetheless, comments on the Facebook post reveal that Block 3 is also affected, potentially expanding the scope of the outages and reinforcing the perception that the system is on the brink of a widespread blackout. The brief statement issued by the company failed to mention the full extent of the crisis in Havana—whether intentionally or not. Milays Castillo García questioned, “Why isn’t Block 3 listed if we lost power too?” Meanwhile, Samantha González highlighted that outages occur “day, night, and early morning” despite the scheduled plan.
Residents from areas such as Virgen del Camino have reported disruptions in Block 3, while users like Maydel Cruz Pérez are demanding transparency: “Face the people and tell us what’s really happening.” In Santa Fe, Guanabacoa, Evelyn Mecías reported unscheduled outages extending from one afternoon to the next morning, followed by further interruptions shortly after.
The credibility of the electric company is also under scrutiny. “It’s all lies, a charade,” wrote María de Lourdes Marrero Santos, with Aina Hernández recalling a recent dismissal of rumors about a general blackout in Havana, which turned out to be alarmingly close to reality. Other affected areas were mentioned, such as Giselle Perera noting, “Block 4 was without power from 9:30 to 2 in the afternoon, what a lack of respect.”
This new crisis comes just hours after Havana was plunged into darkness on Monday due to an unexpected shutdown of a generation unit, causing a 150 MW deficit and impacting key substations like Plaza, Príncipe, Boyeros, Tropical, Rincón, and Santiago, as confirmed by the capital's electric company. The outage, which started at 4:50 p.m., disrupted service across numerous circuits in the city, forcing thousands of families to endure another night of uncertainty.
On Tuesday, it was announced that Cuba would face another challenging day of widespread blackouts due to an electricity generation shortfall of approximately 2,000 MW, according to the Electric Union (UNE)'s daily report on the National Electric System (SEN). This situation led to renewed outcry in Old Havana over the weekend, as residents shared videos of the harsh conditions they endure without electricity, gas, or potable water.
Understanding Havana's Power Crisis
What is causing the power outages in Havana?
The power outages in Havana are primarily due to a significant shortfall in electricity generation and the unavailability of several power units, leading to a substantial power deficit.
How are residents responding to the power crisis?
Residents have taken to social media to express their frustration and demand transparency from the electric company. Many have reported unscheduled outages and are calling for clear communication.
What areas in Havana are most affected by the outages?
Areas such as Virgen del Camino, Santa Fe, Guanabacoa, and Old Havana have been significantly affected, with residents experiencing extended periods without power.