'We have no reserves': Cuba faces 22-hour blackouts and fuel shortage crisis

Cuba’s Energy minister has said the country has “absolutely no fuel” and “absolutely no diesel” amid worsening global supply disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz crisis, per a report by NDTV.

The shortages have deepened power outages across the island nation, with authorities warning that the national grid is under extreme pressure.

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Cuba faces worsening fuel crisis

Cuba has run out of diesel and fuel oil, according to Energy minister Vicente de la O, who described the country’s electricity system as being in a “critical” condition. Speaking on state-run media, he said, “We have absolutely no fuel (oil), and absolutely no diesel,” adding, “We have no reserves", as per NDTV reports.

The shortages have disrupted electricity generation across the country, leading to prolonged blackouts in several areas, including the capital Havana. Reports said some neighbourhoods are facing power cuts lasting up to 20 to 22 hours a day.

Hormuz tensions add to pressure

The crisis comes amid continuing instability around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes. The blockade and ongoing tensions linked to the Iran conflict have affected global energy flows and pushed up fuel costs for countries dependent on imports.

Cuban officials said the country is struggling to secure fuel shipments as international prices rise and suppliers pull back. Traditional partners such as Venezuela and Mexico have reportedly reduced or halted oil supplies in recent months. A Russian tanker shipment earlier this year provided only temporary relief.

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Solar power is unable to offset shortages

Per NDTV, authorities said Cuba has added around 1,300 megawatts of solar energy capacity over the last two years. However, much of that output is being lost because of instability in the national grid caused by the fuel crisis.

The worsening shortages have also affected public transport, food distribution and daily life. Reuters reported that protests broke out in parts of Havana as residents demanded restoration of electricity services.

Cuba is also preparing to introduce variable fuel pricing from May 15 to cope with rising import costs and limited availability.