Amid Cuba's deepening energy crisis, including the March 4 national power collapse, Etecsa has rationed internet and phone services with time slots due to outages and fuel shortages. Reports from multiple provinces highlight widespread disruptions and limited restorations.
Cuba's ongoing energy crisis, exacerbated by the March 4, 2026, collapse of the National Electric System, now severely impacts telecommunications. State provider Etecsa has implemented rationed time slots for internet, mobile, and landline services amid frequent power outages and fuel shortages.
In Matanzas province, a March 2 generator failure at the Cárdenas telephone plant caused multi-day outages in areas like Perico, Colón, and others. Partial restoration followed by March 6 using temporary batteries and generators, with daily slots now set for 8-10 a.m., 1-3 p.m., and 7-9 p.m., subject to fuel. Similar measures apply in Villa Clara (Ranchuelo), Sancti Spíritus (Fomento with three daily blocks), Pinar del Río (Viñales with nighttime/afternoon cuts; solar panels in some areas but criticized), and Cienfuegos (Cruces with hours-long interruptions).
Etecsa officials, including directors in Matanzas and Villa Clara, cite failed batteries, insufficient generator fuel, and minimal 2026 investments. Users express frustration over communication barriers, questioning fund use from recent price hikes despite underused Nauta Hogar plans. Efforts like donated solar panels show partial mitigation, but service ties closely to erratic power supply.
