Cuba grid collapse plunges nation into darkness
Millions have been left without power in Cuba after its electrical grid collapsed. This is “the latest in a series of failures,” according to CNN, on the island nation that is already struggling with infrastructure, natural disasters, and economic turmoil.
The state-run utility company, Cuban Electrical Union, said its employees are working to get he grid running again but officials have warned residents that the aging Soviet-era power stations could take days to get back online.
Antonio Guiteras power plant in Matanzas is the top energy producer in Cuba. It suffered a failure that prompted a collapse of the grid. Residents woke up in darkness with the streets of Havana being “nearly pitch black” as the sun rose in the Cuban capital. The only visible lights came from a few government buildings, large hotels, and vehicle headlights.
The “suspension of work and teaching activities,” was ordered by the government according to Cuba’s Minister of Labor and Social Security, Marta Elena Feito. “This measure will remain in place for the duration of the crisis. Vital services will continue to function and there will be no salary impact” she said.
Officials blamed American economic sanctions, which the previous Trump administration increased, as crippling an already ageing energy infrastructure. Critics however also blame a lack of investment from the Cuban government into its infrastructure.
Cuban officials say US economic sanctions, which increased under the previous Trump administration, have further crippled the already ailing energy sector, although critics also fault a lack of government investment in infrastructure.
Most of the country experienced near-total blackouts in October for almost a week.
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