What happened to Cuba's electrical grid?

HAVANA — Cuba’s electrical grid collapsed Wednesday, leaving the entire island without power, according to the state-run power company. “A total disconnection of the Electrical System, SEN, has occurred, which may be associated with an unexpected outage of the CTE Guiteras,” the Ministry of Energy and Mines wrote on X.

How has Cuba regained electricity?

In the last 24 hours, Cuba has made significant strides in restoring electricity: 7:54 a.m.: Felton 1, part of the Lidio Ramón Pérez thermal power plant in Holguín province, was synchronized with the national grid, marking an important step toward stabilizing power after the total system disconnection on October 18.

Why has Cuba's energy grid collapsed four times in the last 6 months?

On top of that, Cuba’s entire grid has collapsed four times in the last six months. The problem stems from years of neglect of Cuba’s energy infrastructure, exacerbated by constrained access to foreign capital and a failure to adapt to new energy options.

Why is Cuba's power system deteriorating?

As POWER has reported, Cuba’s power system has faced increasing strain since 2021, with blackouts becoming more frequent due to accidents at key generation units and aging thermal power plants. Thermal plants are outdated, with most surpassing their 30-year lifespan.

Why is the energy crisis teetering in Cuba?

Cuba is in the throes of a severe energy crisis, driven by fuel supply disruptions and compounded by obstacles in securing vital technologies and supplies needed to modernize and operate its aging power plants. The situation, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions, has left the nation’s energy system teetering.

What happens if the power grid fails in Cuba?

As the primary power grid fails, Cubans with resources are taking matters into their own hands, often in desperate ways. Businesses, hospitals, and wealthy families are installing gasoline and solar generators; the incessant noise from which has become part of the city’s soundscape.