Cuba Plunged Into Darkness After Complete National Power Grid Collapse

HAVANA, Sept 19 — Cuba’s national power grid suffered a total disconnection on Friday, leaving the entire island without electricity amid an accelerating energy crisis, according to state utility Electricity Union (UNE).

The utility confirmed that recovery protocols were activated immediately following the total system failure and stated that investigation into the root cause is underway as teams work to restore power.

“A total disconnection of the National Electric System has occurred. The protocols for recovery are already being activated,” UNE announced on social media platform X.

Friday’s total collapse marks the latest in a series of widespread power failures affecting the nation this year, driven by deteriorating infrastructure, severe fuel shortages, and limited generation capacity. Authorities and international media previously reported nationwide blackouts in July as well as another major grid breakdown on August 2.

The total blackout follows weeks of severe electricity rationing across the country, including in Havana, where some residents experienced continuous power outages lasting more than 30 hours.

Cuba’s Energy and Mines Ministry has consistently cited aging thermal power plants, lack of fuel supplies, and maintenance difficulties as primary causes for the grid’s instability. While renewable energy installations have added minor capacity to the system, thermal plants continue to serve as the country’s primary energy source.

The prolonged power disruptions have severely impacted essential public services, including water distribution and telecommunications networks across the island.

The Cuban government has attributed the worsening energy crisis to US sanctions and fuel import restrictions, whereas Washington maintains that the economic and infrastructural failures stem from the Cuban administration’s economic policies.

–NMT