Cuba faces severe energy crisis and tourism decline

Cuba energy crisis electrical grid collapse tourism investment sabotage convictions power outages

Cuba is facing a severe multi-faceted crisis characterized by a near-collapse of its electrical grid and a struggling tourism sector. The state-run Union Eléctrica has reported massive power deficits, with peak outages reaching levels near the historical record of 2,411 MW. The instability is exacerbated by the failure of multiple thermoelectric plants and a shortage of fuel for distributed generation.

In response to the energy crisis, the Cuban Attorney General's Office has intensified legal actions against those accused of crimes against the national electrical system. Between 2025 and early 2026, over 460 investigations were launched, with many individuals receiving prison sentences of up to 20 years for sabotage. The most frequent offense reported is the theft of dielectric oil from transformers.

Simultaneously, the tourism industry, which remains a primary target for foreign investment, is in a state of significant decline. Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz confirmed that 73 percent of the country's hotel facilities are currently closed, and seven international hotel chains have exited the island. Despite this, the government continues to prioritize tourism in its investment portfolio, with the sector accounting for 62 percent of the official foreign investment target.

Entities

Barceló · Cuba · Fiscalía General de la República de Cuba · Iberostar · MINCEX · Manuel Marrero Cruz · Meliá · Prensa Latina · Unión Eléctrica

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[○ 1 SOURCE] Over 460 criminal investigations regarding the electrical system were initiated between 2025 and the first half of 2026. www.14ymedio.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] Seven international hotel chains have ceased operations in Cuba. www.riotimesonline.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz confirmed that 73 percent of hotel facilities in Cuba are closed. www.riotimesonline.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] The state-run Union Eléctrica forecasted a power outage of 2,410 MW during peak hours. www.cubaheadlines.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] The tourism sector accounts for 62 percent of the foreign investment capital in Cuba's official business portfolio. www.expreso.info
[○ 1 SOURCE] The theft of dielectric oil from transformers accounted for more than 300 complaints. www.14ymedio.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] The Cuban Attorney General's Office reported that individuals judged in 2026 for electrical system crimes were convicted of sabotage. www.14ymedio.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] A record power outage of 2,411 MW was set on August 11. www.cubaheadlines.com