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Cuba’s power-grid operator successfully restored electricity to parts of Havana on Monday after a fourth major grid failure in 48 hours, while Tropical Storm Oscar wreaked havoc on the island’s eastern end.
Strong winds and heavy rain caused trees to fall and power lines to be knocked down, complicating recovery efforts.
Energy and Mines Minister Vicente de la O Levy emphasized the careful work of technicians to prevent another electrical collapse in the midst of “complex” circumstances.
Cuban energy officials managed to provide around 700 megawatts to the grid, equivalent to one-fourth of a typical day’s demand, by mid-morning. By midday, power had been restored to 56% of Havana.
Electricity was also restored to parts of some outlying provinces on the Caribbean’s largest island.
In response to the ongoing situation, Cuba’s Communist-run government decided to close schools and non-essential industries through Wednesday.
The national electrical grid first failed on Friday, before the storm hit, leaving 10 million people without power. Since then, the grid has experienced full or partial failures three more times, highlighting the fragile state of the country’s infrastructure.
President Miguel Diaz-Canel addressed the nation on Sunday, urging Cubans to express their concerns with discipline and civility, while denouncing any acts of vandalism.
Cubans have been enduring prolonged blackouts for months, with power outages lasting 10 to 20 hours a day in many parts of the country, leading to food spoilage and difficulties in accessing fuel and water.
The government attributes the grid failures to the deteriorating infrastructure and fuel shortages, exacerbated by the U.S. trade embargo and sanctions imposed by former President Donald Trump.
Despite the government’s claims, the U.S. has denied any involvement in the grid failures, while key allies of Cuba, including Russia, Mexico, and Venezuela, have reduced their exports to the island in recent months.
Analysis: The ongoing power grid failures in Cuba, coupled with the impact of Tropical Storm Oscar, have highlighted the country’s vulnerable infrastructure and energy sector. Investors should closely monitor the situation as it can have significant implications for Cuba’s economy and energy market. The government’s response to the crisis, as well as its ability to address the underlying issues, will be key factors to watch. Additionally, the geopolitical dynamics involving Cuba’s allies and trade partners could further complicate the situation and impact investment opportunities in the region.
