The Electric Union (UNE) anticipates a shortfall of 1,827 MW during peak demand hours this Tuesday, with an estimated impact of 1,857 MW, according to the official report from the National Electric System (SEN) released this morning.
Although this figure represents a slight improvement compared to recent weeks, where deficits consistently exceeded 2,000 MW, it provides no real relief to the Cuban populace. Power outages continue to persist, lasting nearly or even more than 20 hours daily in many parts of the island.
As of 6 a.m., the SEN's available capacity was just 1,223 MW against a demand of 2,464 MW, leaving 1,231 MW already without service. By midday, an impact of 1,350 MW was anticipated, with projected peak evening demand climbing to 3,050 MW.
On Monday, the electrical service was disrupted for a full 24 hours, including all night long. The actual maximum impact of that day was recorded at 1,798 MW at 7:50 p.m.
Regarding units out of service, UNE reports breakdowns at unit 2 of the Felton Thermoelectric Plant and units 3 and 6 of the Renté Thermoelectric Plant. Units under maintenance include unit 3 of the Santa Cruz Thermoelectric Plant, unit 5 of the Nuevitas Thermoelectric Plant, and unit 5 of the Renté Thermoelectric Plant. Thermal generation limitations amount to 513 MW. This pattern of failures in the same plants—Felton, Renté, Santa Cruz, and Nuevitas—has been consistently repeated for weeks.
Solar photovoltaic parks contributed 4,742 MWh on Monday, with a peak power of 737 MW during daylight hours. However, solar generation only covers daylight hours and does not resolve the nighttime deficit, which is when demand peaks.
The recent decrease in deficit contrasts sharply with the magnitude of the ongoing crisis. In September, at least 23 out of 28 days saw impacts exceeding 2,000 MW, with an average of approximately 2,093 MW. The first days of October have offered no respite: on October 1, the maximum impact was 2,059 MW; on October 2, it reached 2,130 MW; and on October 3, it was 1,996 MW.
According to a report by Infobae, power cuts in Cuba reach up to 20 hours daily. In Holguín, circuits documented interruptions of 31 hours and 37 minutes and even up to 55 hours and 29 minutes on October 2.
Cuba has experienced at least eight nationwide blackouts so far in 2026, the most recent occurring on September 18, when the SEN completely collapsed. This electrical crisis, a result of decades of neglect and deterioration of energy infrastructure under the regime, shows no signs of structural resolution in the near future.
Cuba's Ongoing Energy Crisis: Key Questions Answered
What is causing the frequent power outages in Cuba?
The frequent power outages in Cuba are primarily due to a combination of outdated and deteriorating energy infrastructure, maintenance issues, and breakdowns in key thermoelectric plants.
How long do the power outages typically last?
Power outages in Cuba can last nearly 20 hours daily in many regions, with some areas experiencing interruptions of over 31 to 55 hours.