Cuba's power struggle: Nine plants halted amid energy crisis
In Cuba, a country engulfed in an energy crisis, at least nine power plants are not functioning, according to findings from independent media. The paralysis is primarily due to failures in the energy systems.
According to Radio Martí, on Wednesday, the most challenging situation in the distribution of electricity was in the provinces of Guantánamo 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.
On Thursday, as reported by an independent portal, five power plants were closed due to the emergence of 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. Companies' obligation to have power-generating equipment must be fulfilled within a maximum of five years. If this obligation is not met, fines equating to CAD 1,100 will be enforced.
