In an event that sparked mockery, outrage, and criticism on social media, the Electric Company of Havana celebrated World Light Day on May 16, while millions of Cubans endure days marked by extensive blackouts across the country.
The institutional post, shared on their official Facebook page, was deleted hours later after the inappropriateness of the message became evident amid the national energy crisis.
With a colorful design and the logo of the Unión Eléctrica (UNE), the image highlighted the anniversary and commemorated the first successful operation of a laser, performed in 1960 by physicist Theodore Maiman.
However, what might seem like a harmless scientific anniversary in another context was perceived as an act of institutional cynicism in the face of the energy crisis plaguing the island.
"This is NOT a meme, and this is NOT a parody page. It is the official and real page of the Electric Company of Havana," wrote the Cuban journalist Ernesto Morales while sharing a screenshot of the post, which generated dozens of sarcastic and angry comments within a few hours.
"While they celebrate the Day of Light, here we don't even have power to charge our phones," commented a user on Facebook.
Contrast with reality: daily darkness and growing discomfort
On May 15, just to give one example, large-scale blackouts continued throughout the country, with a generation deficit of more than 1,000 MW, according to the daily report from UNE.
The situation did not improve the next day. On the 16th, the country reported a supply of only 1,958 MW against a demand of 3,192 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,234 MW, which is more than a third of the national consumption.
In those same days, important generating units such as Guiteras, Felton 1 and 2, Renté, and other distributed plants were out of service. The emergency reserve was only 18 MW, a negligible figure compared to actual needs.
Despite this, the regime promoted International Day of Light as a cultural and scientific commemoration. An article published in CubaSí, an official media outlet, stated that light is “essential for development” and highlighted its presence “in almost every aspect of our lives,” in a tone disconnected from the current experience of millions of citizens.
Amid a collapsed energy system, with outdated infrastructure and a chronic fuel shortage, the "celebration" will stand for many Cubans as yet another symbol of the disconnect between official rhetoric and the grim reality they face every day.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis and Blackouts in Cuba
Why was Light Day celebrated in the middle of an energy crisis in Cuba?
The Electric Company of Havana celebrated World Light Day on May 16, an action that was viewed as an act of cynicism due to the severe energy crisis facing Cuba. Amid massive blackouts and a significant power generation deficit, this celebration was criticized for being out of touch with the reality experienced by citizens, who are enduring prolonged electricity cuts.
What is the magnitude of the electrical deficit in Cuba?
The electricity deficit in Cuba has reached critical levels, with figures exceeding 1,000 MW on multiple occasions. For example, on May 16, the deficit was 1,234 MW, representing more than a third of national consumption. This situation has been ongoing, severely impacting the quality of life for Cubans.
What impact do power outages have on the daily lives of Cubans?
Blackouts severely impact daily life in Cuba, interrupting essential activities such as cooking, using appliances, and accessing basic services like electricity and drinking water. These prolonged power outages have caused increasing social unrest and have paralyzed parts of the national economy.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the energy crisis?
The measures taken by the Cuban government have been insufficient to resolve the energy crisis. Despite attempts to incorporate renewable energies and improve infrastructure, the lack of significant investment and a clear strategy have left the population without lasting solutions, perpetuating the electrical crisis on the island.
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