From ABC News · ABC News · · 1m 20s
Cuba's power grid collapses again, millions without electricity
The Caribbean island faces another nationwide blackout as its aging infrastructure crumbles under economic crisis and US sanctions.
In brief
The Caribbean island faces another nationwide blackout as its aging infrastructure crumbles under economic crisis and US sanctions. Cuba's power system is failing repeatedly due to fuel shortages caused by a US energy blockade combined with decades of deferred maintenance. Originally reported by ABC News.
Cuba's grid collapses again
Cuba's power grid collapsed on Friday, leaving millions without electricity across the island. The Ministry of Energy and Mines announced the blackout but gave no cause.
Blackouts becoming routine
Power grid collapses have become increasingly common over the past two years. The most recent nationwide blackouts occurred in early August, with others in July and March.
US blockade cuts fuel supply
Since January, the United States imposed an energy blockade aimed at forcing political change. The restrictions prevent Cuba from importing fuel for thermoelectric power plants and replacement parts for aging infrastructure.
Economic crisis worsens outages
The severe economic crisis gripping the island has made power grid collapses increasingly common. Infrastructure in many cases has become obsolete and cannot be properly maintained.
Outages persist even when grid works
Even when the national power grid is functioning, Cubans endure outages lasting more than 30 consecutive hours. Officials have begun activating service-restoration protocols.
The takeaway
Cuba's power system is failing repeatedly due to fuel shortages caused by a US energy blockade combined with decades of deferred maintenance.
