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Cuba faces severe energy crisis and blackouts amid political celebrations
Cuba is facing a severe energy and economic crisis, characterized by widespread blackouts and shortages of food, fuel, and medicine. The state electrical company, Unión Eléctrica (UNE), has forecasted significant power deficits, with one estimate predicting a 2,113 MW shortfall during peak demand on August 16, potentially affecting up to 67% of the island. The crisis is exacerbated by the failure or maintenance of seven thermoelectric units and a lack of fuel.
Amidst these hardships, the Cuban government is holding various political commemorations for the centennial of Fidel Castro's birth. These events include musical tributes in Camagüey and Cienfuegos, as well as large-scale political gatherings involving international delegates. While the state attributes the economic difficulties to the United States' policy of economic asphyxiation, China has stepped in to provide technological and financial support for a rapid expansion of solar energy capacity, aiming to reduce fuel dependency.
International aid has also been noted, including medical supplies from Chile and religious items like hosts from Costa Rica to assist local churches struggling with resource scarcity. Additionally, local efforts to stabilize the economy include restructuring the commercial and gastronomic sectors through private and cooperative management.
Entities
Bruno Rodríguez · Camagüey · Celia Cruz · China · Cuba · Fidel Castro · Miguel Díaz-Canel · Nicolás Maduro · United States · Unión Eléctrica
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Cuba has added over 1,000 megawatts of solar capacity in approximately one year through Chinese financing and equipment. totalnewsagency.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez accused Washington of maintaining a policy of maximum pressure and economic asphyxiation. www.martinoticias.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Blackouts could simultaneously affect up to 67% of Cuba's national territory during peak hours. oncubanews.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Catholic Church of Costa Rica sent 20,000 hosts to Cuba to address shortages caused by flour scarcity and blackouts. diariodecuba.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Hermanos Díaz Oil Refinery produced 2,000 tons of naphtha and 10,000 tons of fuel oil during its third run. www.radiobayamo.icrt.cu · www.prensa-latina.cu
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Cuban and Venezuelan authorities issued certificates honoring military personnel for defending the sovereignty of President Nicolás Maduro. www.cubaheadlines.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Unión Eléctrica (UNE) forecasts a power deficit of approximately 2,113 MW during peak demand on Sunday, August 16. oncubanews.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Seven thermoelectric units are currently out of service due to breakdowns or maintenance. oncubanews.com