Cuba is grappling with a severe energy crisis, leading to widespread blackouts and significant daily hardships for its citizens. In many regions, power outages extend beyond 20 hours, compelling residents to seek alternative cooking methods. For instance, 60-year-old Maria Elena Veiga, residing on the outskirts of Havana, has turned to charcoal for cooking due to the unreliable electricity supply.
The root causes of this crisis include a combination of aging thermoelectric plants, fuel shortages, and the deteriorating condition of the national power grid. Currently, only six out of fifteen oil-fired power plants are operational, and a severe fuel shortage prevents the use of smaller diesel-fired generators.
In response to the escalating situation, the Cuban government has implemented measures such as closing schools and advising non-essential workers to stay home to conserve energy. Additionally, the government attributes difficulties in sustaining its electrical grid to the U.S. trade embargo and strict sanctions re-imposed by President Trump.
The energy crisis has also led to a surge in the price of coal, making it a luxury for many families who need it for cooking amid frequent power outages. In provinces like Holguín, a sack of coal costs 1,400 pesos, a significant increase from previous prices.
This ongoing energy crisis underscores the urgent need for infrastructure investment and sustainable energy solutions to alleviate the daily struggles faced by the Cuban population.
Sources:
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/cubans-turn-cooking-with-charcoal-energy-crisis-worsens-2025-02-19/
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/cuba-tells-non-essential-workers-students-stay-home-latest-blackout-2025-02-14/
https://en.cibercuba.com/noticias/2025-02-18-u1-e199370-s27061-nid297362-nuevos-inventos-cubanos-cocinar-apagon
https://en.cibercuba.com/noticias/2025-02-14-u1-e199370-s27061-nid297165-dispara-precio-carbon-cuba-hay-cocinar-apagones