Miguel Díaz-Canel, the Cuban leader, asserted on Saturday that he is prioritizing the recovery of the National Electric System. However, his remarks sparked a wave of criticism and mockery from Cubans who are weary of unfulfilled promises and relentless power outages.
The leader shared a video on Facebook showcasing his visit on Friday to the "Latino" Transformer Factory in Boyeros and the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the Cotorro substation. These facilities were presented by the presidency as crucial components for restoring the electrical system amidst a crisis with deficits exceeding 1,700 MW.
Nonetheless, many Cubans reacted with skepticism rather than optimism. "Yes, with priority, but without results," remarked Zenia Rodríguez Soto.
Public Outcry Over Unmet Expectations
Other comments were harsher in tone. Julio Fernández expressed his exasperation: "I can't wait for them to come get you, I'm so tired of you," while Javy Rex labeled him as "shameless."
Most responses questioned the lack of concrete solutions after decades of energy deterioration. "Actions, not words," demanded Oella Haber Rivas, sarcastically suggesting that solutions would arrive "by 2050."
Luis Cuba also mocked the official rhetoric: "Just need 67 more years, trust."
Criticism of Economic Priorities
Several users criticized the regime's economic priorities. Marisol Céspedes suggested selling one of the empty hotels to buy a new thermoelectric plant, while Marcia Ortiz pointed out that the government continued building hotels "during the crisis" despite the country's electrical and economic collapse.
Comments also directly blamed the political and economic model. "Cuba has abundant talent. We just need to change the political and economic system," wrote Osvaldo Carrillo.
Energy Crisis Deepens
The contrast between the official discourse and the energy reality has fueled public discontent further. The Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant went offline on May 5 due to its eighth boiler failure of the year, disconnecting 140 MW and increasing the energy deficit to nearly 1,900 MW.
Although the plant resynchronized with the National Electric System on Saturday, contributing 200 MW, the expected peak hour deficit remained at 1,710 MW, with a mere availability of 1,590 MW against a demand of 3,300 MW.
Adding to the crisis, Díaz-Canel admitted on May 2 that the Russian oil received at the end of March was nearly depleted, following four consecutive months without new fuel supplies from abroad. This situation exacerbates the fragility of Cuba's electric grid.
This pattern of presidential visits to energy facilities amid crisis persists without structural solutions. Díaz-Canel had previously toured the Guiteras in September 2025 and thermoelectric plants in Cienfuegos in August of that year, with similar outcomes.
Understanding Cuba's Ongoing Energy Crisis
What did Díaz-Canel promise regarding Cuba's electricity system?
Díaz-Canel promised to prioritize the recovery of Cuba's National Electric System, amid widespread power outages and deficits.
How have Cubans reacted to Díaz-Canel's promises?
Cubans have reacted with criticism and skepticism, demanding concrete actions instead of promises, highlighting decades of energy infrastructure decline.
What has contributed to the energy crisis in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba is worsened by outdated infrastructures, frequent failures in key plants like Antonio Guiteras, and a lack of fuel supplies from abroad.