Up to 61% of Cuba to face power outages Friday amid energy crisis

Cuba is bracing for extensive power outages on Friday, with up to 61% of the country potentially losing electricity simultaneously. The state-owned Electric Union (UNE) forecasts the largest cuts will occur during the evening peak demand period. This situation underscores the deepening energy crisis gripping the Caribbean island, which has been severely impacted since mid-2024 and further aggravated by U.S. oil sanctions beginning in January.

Earlier this week, Cuba experienced a nationwide blackout lasting over 36 hours following the collapse of its National Electroenergetic System (SEN). This was the third such system failure in 2026, occurring after nearly two weeks of record-breaking power cuts. During previous major blackouts, between 70% and 72% of the country had been disconnected simultaneously during peak demand.

The UNE report for Friday indicates a projected generation capacity of 1,278 megawatts (MW) against a maximum demand of 3,200 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,922 MW. The estimated disconnections to prevent uncontrolled blackouts will reach 1,952 MW. Compounding the issue, eleven of the sixteen thermoelectric generation units are currently non-operational due to breakdowns or scheduled maintenance.

These persistent problems stem from the obsolescence of Cuba's thermoelectric plants, many of which have been in operation for decades without adequate investment. These plants are responsible for 40% of the country's energy mix, utilizing domestic crude oil. Another 40% of the energy mix relies on diesel and imported fuel oil for generation engines, but supply is hampered by the lack of raw materials due to U.S. pressure. The remaining 20% of Cuba's energy comes from gas and renewable sources, partly with Chinese support. Estimates suggest Cuba needs over 100,000 barrels of oil daily, with domestic production supplying around 40,000, necessitating significant imports. Refurbishing the national grid is estimated to require between $8 billion and $10 billion.