Cuba has started restoring power to its capital Havana and surrounding provinces after a nationwide grid collapse left 10 million people without electricity on Sunday morning. According to the country’s electric company, approximately 19% of clients in the city have seen their power restored.
The Cuba Energy and Mines Ministry reported that the Felton power plant, one of the country’s largest, has been reactivated, marking a significant step towards recovery. However, the ministry also stated that the Antonio Guinteras plant in Matanzas is still offline, adding to the country’s ongoing energy crisis.
Residents of Havana are facing increasing concerns about food spoilage as the power outage lasted for around 36 hours, leaving many with limited access to refrigeration. The city, which has a population of over two million, has been without power since Friday evening, affecting popular tourist hotels, restaurants, and homes.
The collapse marked the fourth nationwide blackout in Cuba since October, highlighting the country’s struggles with aging oil-fired power plants. Cuba blames the crisis on US trade embargoes and restrictions imposed by former President Donald Trump.
To address its energy needs, Cuba is exploring large-scale solar farms with Chinese assistance. The government aims to reduce dependence on antiquated oil-fired generation and mitigate the impact of ongoing sanctions.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/cuba-begins-restoring-power-capital-havana-outlying-provinces-2025-03-16