HAVANA — A major power outage hit Cuba on Wednesday, plunging the nation into darkness after a significant power plant malfunction. This disruption has left millions without electricity, prompting authorities to indefinitely halt classes and work activities.

According to the state-run Electric Union, the failure was linked to the shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Plant located in Matanzas province, to the east of the capital. The blackout began shortly after 2 a.m. and had a nationwide impact, as reported by the company on X.

By Wednesday morning, some areas, including Havana, began receiving a gradual restoration of power. Vicente de la O, Cuba’s Minister of Energy and Mines, later informed citizens through a televised statement that electricity service was expected to be fully reinstated by Thursday.

This outage follows an earlier blackout on October 18, which, combined with the effects of Hurricane Oscar two days later, left the country powerless for several days. Just weeks later, strong winds from Hurricane Rafael resulted in another large-scale blackout, once again disconnecting the national energy system.

In recent months, Cuba has been grappling with frequent blackouts, with over half the nation experiencing power cuts during peak hours. The primary reasons for these outages are attributed to fuel shortages and an aging power infrastructure. Electricity is particularly vital for activities like cooking and water pumping in many regions.

The widespread blackouts, mostly resulting from the failures of outdated thermoelectric plants, have had severe repercussions on families, educational institutions, and local businesses. Cuba’s electricity generation heavily relies on larger thermoelectric plants, such as the Antonio Guiteras, in conjunction with several smaller facilities that predominantly operate on crude oil.

While the island produces about half of its crude oil, it must import the rest, a process complicated by U.S. sanctions, making it often challenging and expensive. Cuba has traditionally depended on allies such as Venezuela and Russia for more affordable fuel supplies.

In an effort to modernize its power supply, Cuba is undertaking a project to boost the electrical grid with alternative energy sources. Currently, the construction of 31 solar energy generation centers is underway, with hopes that these centers will be operational by next year.

The economic situation in Cuba has deteriorated significantly in recent years, resulting in shortages of food and fuel, rising inflation, and reduced purchasing power. This grim reality has driven thousands of individuals to seek refuge abroad, primarily targeting the U.S., Spain, and various Latin American nations.