Cuba Faces Widespread Blackouts Affecting 9.7 Million Amid Energy Crisis

Cuba is grappling with a critical energy shortage, leaving an estimated 9.7 million of its citizens with an average of just two to three hours of electricity per day. The Unión Eléctrica (UNE), the state-run power company, forecasts that a staggering 65% of the nation will simultaneously experience power outages.

Government officials point to a U.S. oil blockade as the primary cause, exacerbating an energy crisis that has been ongoing for two years. However, independent experts highlight the nation's aging energy infrastructure as a significant contributing factor. Many thermoelectric plants, built between the 1960s and 1970s, are prone to frequent breakdowns due to a lack of maintenance and investment.

The situation has led to widespread discontent, with reports of peaceful demonstrations and protests in Havana, where blackouts have reportedly lasted up to 22 consecutive hours for over a month. The UNE reports a substantial deficit between electricity generation capacity and demand, particularly during peak evening hours, leading to the extensive power cuts across the island.