Cuba’s Ministry of Energy and Mines confirmed a “complete disconnection” of the national electrical system, marking the third major blackout in the past four months. Officials said there were no immediate failures reported in operating units at the time of the collapse and that investigations are underway to determine the exact cause, reported Associated Press.
By Monday evening, state media reported that electricity had been restored to only about 2 per cent of Havana’s residents—roughly 18,000 customers—along with limited supply to a few hospitals. Authorities said priority would next be given to restoring power to communication networks, while cautioning that the fragile system could fail again.
Aging infrastructure and fuel shortages worsen crisis
Cuba’s power grid has significantly deteriorated in recent years, resulting in frequent outages and repeated large-scale blackouts. Experts say the infrastructure has outlived its operational lifespan and has not been adequately maintained.
The situation has been compounded by fuel shortages. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel recently stated that the country has not received oil shipments for nearly three months, forcing reliance on limited sources such as solar energy, natural gas and thermoelectric plants. However, these have proven insufficient to meet national demand, reported Associated Press.
US tensions and oil supply disruptions add pressure
The Cuban government has blamed part of the crisis on U.S. policies, including restrictions affecting oil supplies. Tensions escalated after U.S. President Donald Trump warned of tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba and demanded political and economic reforms in exchange for easing sanctions, reported Associated Press.
Trump also made controversial remarks about potentially taking control of Cuba, calling it a “weakened nation,” further intensifying geopolitical uncertainty around the island.
Daily life severely impacted across the island
The blackout has had a significant impact on daily life, with residents struggling to cope with prolonged outages. Many reported food spoilage, disrupted medical services and hardships for elderly family members.
Authorities have already postponed tens of thousands of medical procedures due to the ongoing power crisis. Citizens expressed frustration over the repeated outages, with some saying the situation has become unbearable, reported Associated Press.
Experts warn of economic collapse and migration risks
Energy experts have warned that without urgent investment and structural reforms, Cuba’s crisis could worsen. American University professor William LeoGrande said the country’s grid is operating far beyond its usable life and requires major upgrades, reported Associated Press.
He cautioned that continued shortages and instability could lead to economic collapse, social unrest and increased migration if conditions do not improve.
Government explores reforms and foreign partnerships
In response to the crisis, Cuban officials said they are considering economic reforms, including allowing Cubans living abroad to invest in private businesses and infrastructure projects. The government is also exploring partnerships to boost renewable energy capacity and stabilise the grid, reported Associated Press.
However, analysts note that without sufficient financial resources and access to spare parts, recovery efforts may remain slow, leaving the country vulnerable to further disruptions.
(With inputs from Associated Press)