Cuba’s energy crisis is worsening, with power generation falling short by nearly 60% of the country’s demand. The result is long, repeated blackouts — in some areas, the electricity is out for over 20 hours a day.
The country’s grid is collapsing under the pressure of limited fuel supplies, constant technical failures at key plants, and decades of underinvestment. One of the hardest-hit facilities recently has been the floating power station at Melones, operated by a Turkish company, along with several of the island’s aging plants.
People across the island say the situation feels more severe than in past years. Government updates haven’t offered much hope, and many citizens have turned to sarcasm and frustration online — questioning the lack of planning and transparency.
While officials have pointed to solar power as part of the solution, the numbers tell a different story. Eight new solar parks were recently added to the system, but the energy they produce is still far from enough to close the gap. The country remains heavily dependent on diesel, with few alternatives.
Forecasts suggest the worst may not be over. Electricity supply is expected to fall well short of what’s needed during peak hours.
The blackout crisis, which intensified in 2021, is now stretching into its fourth year without a clear way forward. For many Cubans, the problem is no longer just technical but a daily reminder of a system struggling to function.
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