Cuba is currently facing a nationwide blackout following the shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant, which led to the complete disconnection of the National Electric System on Friday at 11:00 am. This incident has plunged the country into an 'energy emergency', affecting millions of residents who have already been experiencing severe power shortages. The government has implemented drastic measures such as closing schools, cancelling recreational activities, and advising many workers to stay home to conserve energy. The situation is exacerbated by a combination of aging infrastructure, increased U.S. sanctions, and recent hurricane disruptions, which have all contributed to the ongoing crisis.
Cuban officials, including Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz and President Miguel Díaz-Canel, have acknowledged the gravity of the situation. In a televised address, Marrero indicated that the government had halted much of the country's economic activity to prioritize energy generation for the population. He assured citizens that shipments of fuel are expected to arrive soon, which could help alleviate some of the power shortages. Meanwhile, President Díaz-Canel emphasized that resolving this energy crisis is the government’s top priority.
