Díaz-Canel Inspected Energy Facilities Amidst Rolling Blackouts

Qué pasó

Miguel Díaz-Canel, the President of Cuba, visited two key energy facilities in Havana on Friday, May 9, 2026. This visit occurred as the nation grapples with increasingly severe and prolonged electricity outages.

The tour included the Transformadores Latino factory and the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the Cotorro substation. These projects are part of the government's official strategy to repair and stabilize the National Electric Power System (SEN).

Dónde y cuándo

The visit took place on Friday, May 9, 2026, in Havana, Cuba. The specific locations were the Transformadores Latino factory in Boyeros and the BESS at the Cotorro substation.

At the Transformadores Latino factory, founded in 1987, discussions focused on the production of transformers. At the Cotorro substation, the BESS project, near completion, was showcased. Its operational start is anticipated for the latter half of June.

Por qué es importante

These visits highlight the critical state of Cuba's energy sector. The rolling blackouts are severely impacting daily life and the economy. The government is presenting these infrastructure projects as crucial steps toward recovery.

The BESS installations are intended to help stabilize the power grid's frequency and support the expansion of solar energy. The factory's production of transformers is aimed at reducing import costs and ensuring domestic supply.

Qué dicen las partes

Officials at the Transformadores Latino factory reported plans to produce 10,000 transformers in 2026, with an estimated cost saving of $1,200 per unit compared to imports. The BESS project, utilizing Chinese technology, is 93% complete and is expected to add significant storage capacity.

However, the context of the visit is marked by the failure of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant on May 5th, worsening the existing power outages. President Díaz-Canel has recently acknowledged dwindling oil reserves, adding to the uncertainty surrounding future energy supplies.

Qué viene ahora

The BESS system at Cotorro is expected to become operational by the end of June. This initiative is part of a larger program involving similar systems in other provinces, aiming for a combined capacity of 200 megawatts.

The government will likely continue to promote these infrastructure projects. Meanwhile, the public remains critical, observing whether these efforts will bring tangible improvements to the persistent energy shortages affecting the country.