Christmas Eve in 2025 has descended into darkness for millions across Cuba. The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) announced a shortfall of 1,960 megawatts, with an expected impact of 1,990 MW during peak hours, virtually leaving the nation in the dark on one of the year's most anticipated nights.
The technical forecast not only confirmed power outages but also ignited public outrage. Beneath the UNE's social media post, dozens voiced their frustration, sadness, and exhaustion over yet another night without power, plagued by heat, mosquitoes, and a sense of powerlessness.
“Tonight will be a dark night, not a merry one,” one user wrote, echoing widespread sentiment. Others lamented that government institutions “don’t even respect Christmas,” and noted that Cuban children are “forced to grow up without gifts, sweets, or light.”
In areas like Consolación del Sur and Marianao, residents reported over 30 continuous hours without electricity. “This is beyond neglect; they don’t think about the elderly or the sick,” one resident complained, while another remarked, “Not even during the worst days of the Special Period did we experience something like this.”
A Dim Christmas Marked by Resignation
The country's energy situation has been dire for the past five years but has worsened dramatically in recent weeks. According to the UNE, availability is barely 1,340 MW, compared to a demand exceeding 3,300 MW.
The official reasons cited are “unexpected outages and fuel shortages.” However, many Cubans blame the regime for incompetence and lack of foresight.
“You’ll have power and celebrations with air conditioning; the people only have darkness and creative endurance,” one citizen wrote sarcastically. Another summed up the national mood: “They give us blackouts, and we respond with silence and resignation.”
Between Darkness and Faith
Despite the discontent, some Cubans cling to hope.
“May God’s light shine on this land, because we don’t expect it from man,” a woman from the eastern region wrote, while another user called for “divine justice for those who have condemned the people to darkness.”
For many, Christmas Eve in Cuba is once again filled with sorrow, with family members far away due to the migration crisis, and no feast to enjoy at the table.
Children are left without electricity to light up their Christmas trees, and grandparents cannot rest from the heat without fans. Meanwhile, the government remains silent, and literal and symbolic darkness prevails over an island yearning for a glimmer of light.
The Energy Crisis in Cuba
What caused the power outages in Cuba during Christmas Eve 2025?
The Cuban Electric Union (UNE) cited unexpected outages and fuel shortages as the main reasons for the power deficit, impacting the entire nation during one of the year's most anticipated nights.
How have Cuban citizens reacted to the ongoing energy crisis?
Many Cubans have expressed frustration, sadness, and exhaustion over repeated power outages, criticizing the government's incompetence and lack of foresight while clinging to hope and faith for a better future.