Cuba's energy turmoil: Outages intensify as plants falter
According to reports from independent media in Cuba, at least nine power plants are not operational in the country's energy crisis. The paralysis is primarily due to failures within the energy systems.
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 damage caused to the transmission system by the autumn hurricanes Oscar and Rafael.
As 14ymedio noted, 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 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. Companies must have power-generating equipment installed within a maximum of five years. If this obligation is not met, fines of approximately £630 will be enforced.
