Cuban officials outlined on Mesa Redonda measures to counter the intensified U.S. energy blockade, which has blocked fuel shipments for over three months. First Deputy Minister of Energy and Mines Argelio Jesús Abad Vigoa stated that over 1,400 MW of installed capacity remains idle due to lack of crude oil. Progress includes domestic production, renewables, and restorations to stabilize the grid.
On the Mesa Redonda television program, First Deputy Minister of Energy and Mines Argelio Jesús Abad Vigoa outlined Cuba's dire energy sector situation, worsened by the U.S. blockade. "Not a single ship with contracted international market fuel has entered for more than three months," he noted, leaving the country without diesel, fuel oil, gasoline, jet fuel, or liquefied gas.
This impacts electricity generation: over 1,100 MW in distributed generation and 330 MW in Mariel and Moa engines are idle due to crude shortages, totaling more than 1,400 MW out of service. Production now relies on domestic crude at thermoelectric plants, associated gas at Energas facilities, and renewable sources, leading to grid instability and prolonged blackouts.
Abad Vigoa highlighted progress: in 2025, the Cuban Petroleum Union (CUPET) achieved the highest oil equivalent production in seven years, a trend continuing into 2026 with new wells. Thermal restorations added 348 MW, including 80 MW at Felton Unit 1, 85 MW at Santa Cruz Unit 2, 158 MW at Céspedes Unit 4 in Cienfuegos, and 25 MW at Guiteras.
Renewables advanced with 52 completed solar photovoltaic parks exceeding 1,000 MWp, supplying 38% of daytime peak consumption. 10,185 of 10,259 solar systems were installed for teachers, doctors, and labor heroes, plus 5,000 modules in isolated communities and essential services. 200 MW battery stations stabilize the grid, and over 6,000 homes connected to the National Electric System via photovoltaics.
Industry Minister Eloy Álvarez Martínez reported self-financing schemes for businesses and strengthening of 27 foreign-capital entities. National Institute of Water Resources President Antonio Rodríguez Rodríguez detailed water pumping transitions with solar panels on 834 stations and procurement of 22 electric vehicles in Havana.
