Cuba's power struggle: 9 plants down amid growing outages
According to independent media findings, at least nine power plants in Cuba, a country engulfed in an energy crisis, are not functioning. The paralysis is primarily due to failures in the energy systems.
8:09 AM EST, November 28, 2024
According to Radio Marti on Wednesday, the most challenging situation in electricity distribution was in the provinces of Guantanamo and Artemisa, which are in the east and west of the Caribbean island, respectively.
The broadcaster's findings indicate that difficulties in power transmission are related, among other things, to transmission system damage caused by the autumn hurricanes Oscar and Rafael.
As 14ymedio reminded, on Monday, after several days of repairs, Cuba's main power plant in the city of Matanzas, in the west of the country, was restored to operation; however, nine other power plants ceased operation.
As reported by an independent portal, five power plants were closed on Thursday due to emerging failures, while repairs were underway in four other facilities.
New obligation for companies. Authorities threaten with fines
Since October, there have been very frequent and prolonged power outages in Cuba. In most provinces, power shortages last from a few to several hours a day.
In response to the country's energy crisis, Cuban authorities have called for the "control and efficient use of energy resources" and for companies to invest in renewable energy sources, such as solar panels. The requirement that companies have power-generating equipment must be fulfilled within a maximum of five years. If this obligation is not met, fines equating to $800 will be enforced.
