On Friday, Havana's Electrical Company announced a crippling power generation shortfall affecting its six power blocks, resulting in a staggering 315 megawatts (MW) deficit. This shortfall has left nearly the entire Cuban capital in darkness.
In a message shared on their Telegram channel, the company confirmed that the blackout spans the entire city, affecting blocks one through six, highlighting the ongoing inability to control the generation deficit.
The company urged residents to stay updated through their official channels, yet failed to provide any timeline for restoring service.
This significant deficit once again underscores the inability of the system to meet the minimal energy demands of Cuba's most densely populated city.
The absence of detailed explanations regarding immediate causes, recovery timelines, and actual generation capacity only strengthens the perception of a system operating at its breaking point, lacking technical support or reliable reserves.
On Wednesday, Havana woke to complete darkness following the disconnection from the National Electric System (SEN) in the western region.
The Electric Union (UNE) forecasted for Friday a generation deficit of 2,008 MW, with an expected impact of 2,078 MW.
This means that up to 61% of the national territory will experience simultaneous outages during peak demand times, a record-breaking figure in Cuba's ongoing energy crisis.
A previous record had been set on Monday, December 1, with a 59% outage impact.
The current situation is the result of outdated infrastructure, lack of maintenance, and fuel shortages, which have rendered several thermoelectric units and distributed generation plants inoperative.
It was revealed during the day that the major maintenance of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant in Matanzas will be postponed due to a "situational" technical and risk issue, receiving only a short maintenance break in January 2026, as the country struggles to sustain the unstable Felton plant.
Furthermore, Energy and Mines Minister Vicente de la O Levy predicted that 2026 might see slight improvements thanks to repairs in thermoelectric plants and increased solar power, but warned that fuel shortages and the state of the SEN would prevent the end of blackouts.
Understanding the Havana Power Crisis
What is causing the power outages in Havana?
The power outages in Havana are primarily due to a significant power generation deficit, outdated infrastructure, inadequate maintenance, and fuel shortages.
How widespread is the power outage in Cuba?
The outage affects up to 61% of the national territory during peak demand times, marking a record high in Cuba's energy crisis.
When will the power be restored in Havana?
Currently, there is no estimated timeline for the restoration of power services in Havana.
Are there any long-term solutions planned for Cuba's power crisis?
Energy and Mines Minister Vicente de la O Levy mentioned that 2026 might bring slight improvements due to repairs in thermoelectric plants and increased solar power, although ongoing fuel shortages remain a challenge.