energy
March 29, 2026
Blackouts will leave up to 57% of Cuba without power simultaneously this Sunday
Prolonged blackouts will simultaneously affect up to 57% of Cuba this Sunday during the peak evening hours, according to data from the state-owned Unión Eléctrica (UNE) compiled by EFE. Cuba has been experiencing a deep energy crisis since mid-2024, but the oil blockade imposed by the US government since January has increased electricity cuts on the island, paralyzing the economy almost completely and escalating social unrest with protests in various parts of the island.
TL;DR
- Up to 57% of Cuba will experience simultaneous blackouts on Sunday evening.
- The country is facing a deep energy crisis exacerbated by US oil sanctions since January.
- The state-owned Unión Eléctrica (UNE) forecasts a generation capacity of 1,360 MW against a maximum demand of 3,100 MW.
- The estimated deficit will lead to 1,770 MW being disconnected.
- Cuba has had seven total national power grid disconnections in the last 18 months.
- Daily power cuts often exceed 20 hours in many regions and 15 hours in parts of Havana.
- Eight of the country's 16 thermoelectric generation units are inoperable due to breakdowns or maintenance.
- Fuel shortages have halted distributed generation, which accounts for 40% of the energy mix.
- Experts cite chronic underfunding and US sanctions as key causes of the crisis.
- The national energy system requires an estimated $6.6 billion for generation capacity restoration.
- The blackouts have contributed to an economic contraction of over 15% since 2020 and have triggered major social protests.