On Sunday, Granma's Electric Company announced that electricity service has been restored to 25% of its customers in the province as efforts continue to rebuild the system disrupted by Hurricane Melissa.
According to an official update shared on the company's Facebook page, approximately 71,200 customers now have power thanks to a microsystem connecting the fuel oil sites at Niquero, Manzanillo, and Bayamo, generating a total of 25 megawatts.
The company reported successful repairs at the Las Tapias, Yara, and La Sabana solar parks, with La Sabana ready to synchronize and enhance local supply.
Efforts to Reconnect to National Grid
Current efforts are focused on certifying the 110 kV lines to Santiago de Cuba, a necessary step to reconnect with the National Electric System (SEN).
Additionally, crews are working on energizing the 33 kV lines that supply power to the municipalities of Bartolomé Masó, Yara, Buey Arriba, Cauto Cristo, and Guisa.
Community Frustration and Government Response
In the meantime, the rehabilitation of Jiguaní has started, with linemen from Niquero, Campechuela, and Media Luna assisting in Manzanillo, the source noted.
Despite ongoing efforts, many residents have expressed frustration on social media over delays in service restoration. People in Pilón, Campechuela, Yara, Ciro Redondo, and Bayamo reported being without electricity or potable water for five to seven days and demanded more transparency about recovery plans.
In response to the criticism, the company reassured the public that reconnection efforts are underway and that all available crews are actively working in the area.
The government acknowledged the complexity of restoring electricity in the eastern part of the country due to the extensive damage caused by the hurricane to distribution networks and high-voltage transmission lines.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Minister of Energy and Mines, Vicente de la O Levy, admitted that the recovery is slow due to the severe destruction of electrical systems across several provinces.
According to the daily report from the Electric Union (UNE), the country is expected to face a deficit of 1,073 MW on Sunday, with a total impact of 1,143 MW if current conditions persist.
FAQs on Power Restoration in Granma
What percentage of Granma's electricity has been restored?
Electricity service has been restored to 25% of customers in Granma.
Which areas are currently receiving electricity?
Power is currently being supplied to approximately 71,200 customers in areas connected by the Niquero, Manzanillo, and Bayamo microsystem.
What are the main challenges in restoring electricity?
The main challenges include extensive damage to distribution networks and high-voltage transmission lines caused by Hurricane Melissa.