National Blackout in Cuba: 20-Hour Power Cuts and 2,300 MW Deficit

The energy crisis in Cuba has reached critical levels this Wednesday, March 11, 2026. After a week of constant instability, the National Electro-Energetic System (SEN) continues to operate in precarious conditions, leaving more than two-thirds of the population without power simultaneously.

Current SEN Condition

According to the latest reports from the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), the generation deficit reached 2,300 megawatts (MW) during peak hours. This figure represents one of the highest shortages recorded in the island’s recent history, surpassing even the worst moments of the 2024 crisis.

The primary cause of this collapse is the disconnection of the Antonio Guiteras Thermal Power Plant (CTE) in Matanzas, the country’s most important one. Despite efforts to reintegrate it into the system, mechanical failures and lack of adequate maintenance have prevented its stabilization.

Main Effects by Region

• Havana: Unlike previous months where the capital enjoyed some protection, scheduled cuts of up to 12 hours are currently reported.
• Central Region (Villa Clara, Sancti Spíritus): Residents report blackouts exceeding 18 continuous hours.
• East (Holguín, Santiago de Cuba): In some locations, power cuts have reached 20 hours daily, leaving barely 4 hours of service in the early morning.

Impact on Daily Life

The lack of electricity doesn’t just affect lighting; it has paralyzed much of the economy and basic services:

1. Water Supply: Electric pumps cannot operate, worsening the shortage of drinking water.
2. Food Preparation: With most families depending on induction stoves, cooking has become an impossible task.
3. Health: Hospitals operate with emergency plants, but the lack of fuel limits their autonomy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will power be restored across all of Cuba? There is no definite date. UNE has indicated that full recovery depends on the Antonio Guiteras CTE coming back online and the arrival of new fuel shipments.

Which areas are being most affected by the blackouts? Provinces in the center and east of the country, such as Holguín and Santiago de Cuba, record the longest power cuts, often exceeding 20 hours daily.

Are international airports in Cuba operational? Yes, main airports operate on emergency generators, although delays and lack of air conditioning in some terminals have been reported.

Are there protests due to the lack of light? Isolated “cacerolazos” (pot-banging protests) have been reported in neighborhoods in Havana and Matanzas. Police presence has increased in the most affected areas.

Related Links

• Massive 2000 MW Blackouts Leave Cuba in Darkness
• Protests in Havana During 2,000 MW Blackouts
• Cuba Energy Crisis: 63% of the Island Without Power
• US Bans Use of Cuban Banks for Fuel Imports
• Russian Tanker Sea Horse Arrives in Cuba with Fuel

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Sources: EL PAÍS, Infobae, CiberCuba