Cuba's state-owned electricity company forecasts simultaneous blackouts affecting nearly 56% of the island
Cuba's state-owned Electric Union forecasts simultaneous blackouts affecting up to 56% of the country during peak consumption hours, amid an energy crisis worsened by fuel shortages and breakdowns in thermoelectric plants.
TL;DR
- Cuba's Electric Union predicts simultaneous blackouts affecting up to 56% of the country during peak hours on Wednesday.
- The island is experiencing an unprecedented energy crisis, worsened by U.S. oil blockades, fuel scarcity, and outdated thermoelectric plants.
- Seven out of 16 operational thermoelectric units are currently out of service due to breakdowns or maintenance.
- Independent experts attribute the crisis to chronic underfunding of the state-controlled sector, estimating $8-10 billion is needed to fix the electrical system.
- The government blames U.S. sanctions for the "energy suffocation," while prolonged blackouts impact the economy and have triggered recent protests.