Power outage in Cuba [AP=Yonhap News]

Cuba has fully restored its power grid approximately 38 hours after a nationwide blackout, local state-run media outlet Cubadebate reported on the 12th (local time).

According to the report, the entire National Electric System (SEN) was reconnected by 6:30 a.m. that day. The massive blackout began when the power grid failed at 4:30 p.m. on the 10th.

Cuba has been experiencing widespread power outages due to aging infrastructure and fuel shortages, and the situation has worsened since January, when U.S. government sanctions were tightened.

There have been four instances of national power grid paralysis this year alone. It is the ninth major blackout since the end of 2024.

Although the power grid has been restored, experts predict that stable electricity supply will remain difficult as long as sanctions persist, given the ongoing fuel shortages and power plant malfunctions.

Currently, units 6 and 8 at the Mariel thermal power plant and unit 2 at the Felton thermal power plant are out of service due to breakdowns, while unit 3 at the Havana thermal power plant, unit 5 at the Nuevitas thermal power plant, and units 5 and 6 at the Rente thermal power plant are undergoing maintenance.

Consequently, Cubadebate reported that available power during this evening's peak hours is expected to reach only 1,473 MW (megawatts), which is approximately 46% of the required supply.