Blackout in Cuba paralyzes economy, risks political unrest

Cuba’s main power plant, Antonio Guiteras, failed on Friday, leading to a nationwide blackout around 11 a.m.

The government shut down schools, government offices, and nonessential businesses to save power.

Prime Minister Manuel Marrero said in a televised address, “We have had to paralyze the economy to guarantee a minimum of electrical service.” The blackout has impacted over 10 million people.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said resolving the energy crisis is a top priority and blamed the US embargo for making it harder to import oil. The country is dependent on oil from Venezuela but has received less fuel this year due to Venezuela’s own problems, making the situation worse.

Cuba’s energy crisis risks sparking unrest in the island nation. Protests have occurred in the past over power outages, and the current blackout adds to ongoing economic struggles.

People are struggling to cope, and generators are expensive, with some being sold for $1,500, while the average salary is just $10 a month.