Eastern Cuban Provinces Reportedly Disconnected from the National Electric System

Disconnection in the Eastern Region

Provinces across Cuba's eastern region, spanning from Holguín to Guantánamo, were disconnected today from the National Electric System (SEN), as reported by the Caribbean nation's state-owned power utility, Unión Eléctrica.

According to statements released by the utility on social media, the disconnection resulted from an oscillation in the transmission lines. This disturbance caused the operational failure of Unit 1 at the "Lidio Ramón Pérez" (Felton) Thermoelectric Power Plant (CTE), Unit 6 at the "Diez de Octubre" CTE, and Unit 6 at the "Antonio Maceo" CTE.

Recurring Grid Collapses and Broader Impacts

So far in 2026, the SEN has experienced several nationwide blackouts, each requiring recovery periods ranging between five and eight hours to achieve progressive reconnection across the affected provinces.

These recurring electrical failures negatively affect household daily life while severely disrupting commercial activity and every sector of the Cuban economy. Official data indicates that recovery protocols have prioritized restoring power to hospitals, water pumping stations, and essential services before gradually reincorporating remaining distribution circuits.

Earlier this month, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez denounced the national power grid failures as direct consequences of the United States blockade, emphasizing the impact of the energy embargo. Rodríguez posted on X that the energy blockade not only restricts the open import of fuel, but also hinders the arrival of critical replacement parts for the SEN, impedes technical collaboration with foreign experts, and limits access to international financing.