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Power Crises in Samoa and Cuba: Analyzing Causes and Solutions

General Report April 4, 2025
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  • The recent power crises in Samoa and Cuba present a stark illustration of the vulnerabilities faced by nations reliant on aging energy infrastructures plagued by various systemic challenges. In Samoa, citizens have endured mounting power disruptions following catastrophic failures in the electrical grid, particularly affecting the main island of Upolu. The situation escalated in February 2025 with a series of catastrophic events, primarily triggered by a fault in the underground high-voltage cable alongside severe weather disruptions that collectively precipitated a state of emergency. The ensuing outages, lasting up to 16 hours daily, have not only significantly disrupted daily life but also threatened the economic viability of local businesses, particularly in the tourism sector, which is crucial to the nation's overall economic health. This crisis, with its estimated impact costing up to 16% of Samoa's GDP, underscores the urgent need for effective energy management and strategic investments into resilient and sustainable energy infrastructures.

  • Conversely, Cuba's ongoing energy crisis, deeply rooted in chronic infrastructural decline and economic constraints exacerbated by an embargo, has led to frequent blackouts that disrupt both daily activities and economic productivity. The situation reflects decades of insufficient investment in energy maintenance and modernization. The Cuban government has initiated measures aimed at enhancing energy efficiency, but the erratic power supply, which many citizens have faced routinely, underscores a persistent failure to meet rising energy demands. As local markets and services struggle under the burden of unreliable electricity, the systemic weaknesses in energy provision highlight the pressing need for comprehensive reforms and innovative solutions to ensure that Cubans have access to stable and reliable power supplies in the future. Overall, both nations illustrate an urgent call to action for transforming energy policy and infrastructure to secure economic viability and improve quality of life for citizens.

Current Power Crises in Samoa and Cuba

  • Overview of power crises in Samoa

  • Samoa is currently facing a profound energy crisis that has escalated significantly since February 2025 due to a combination of critical infrastructure failures and severe weather disruptions. The power supply issues have primarily centered around the main island of Upolu, home to around 200,000 residents. The crisis began on February 23, when a major fault in the underground high-voltage cable between the Fiaga and Fuluasou power stations led to a total blackout. This was compounded by a subsequent failure on February 25 that necessitated further repairs and maintenance to restore power generation capabilities. By March 9, the situation worsened as severe storms damaged both power lines and poles, leading to additional outages and systemic issues in the electricity grid. Eventually, on March 15, several backup generators failed, resulting in an aggregate power shortfall of around 10 MW. In response to these circumstances, the Samoan government declared a 30-day state of emergency beginning April 3, 2025. This declaration was aimed at enabling more effective management of the energy crisis, including the implementation of measures to protect public health and maintain essential services. The Electric Power Corporation (EPC) has been proactive through a combination of rationing and repair efforts, working with emergency rental generators sourced from New Zealand, and planning the installation of new diesel generators from China. The extensive impact of the crisis is projected to cost Samoa up to 16% of its GDP, affecting not only residential users but also local businesses and the broader economy.

  • Local businesses, especially those reliant on consistent electricity such as hospitality services, have been severely impacted. Many operators have expressed that the ongoing outages are 'killing businesses.' For instance, operators of Airbnb properties on the island have begun to view owning backup generators as essential for survival, given the damages incurred from intermittent power supply. As frustrations mount among citizens regarding what some perceive as inadequate governmental responses to the crisis, a pressing call for immediate and long-term solutions to ensure energy reliability has emerged.

  • Overview of power crises in Cuba

  • Cuba has been grappling with an ongoing energy crisis characterized by persistent blackouts and significant disruption to daily life and economic activities. The power supply issues are largely attributed to an aging energy infrastructure, which has faced compounding challenges due to the country's economic constraints exacerbated by an ongoing embargo. The government has recognized that maintenance of existing plants and the development of new energy sources have not kept pace with growing demand, resulting in frequent and planned outages that can last for several hours each day. Recent governmental measures have sought to mitigate the effects of these outages. The Ministry of Energy and Mines has initiated several strategies aimed at improving the reliability of the national electric grid. This includes enhancing energy efficiency, promoting renewable energy projects, and seeking international partnerships for investment in energy infrastructure. However, progress has been slow, with many Cubans expressing dissatisfaction over the lack of feasible solutions and the prolonged nature of the crisis, which has persisted for several years. The socio-economic impact of Cuba's power shortages is profound, particularly on small businesses that depend heavily on consistent electricity for operations. Local markets and services have faced downturns in productivity, and homes have been affected by rising costs to secure alternative power sources such as generators. The government has acknowledged the severity of the situation but has struggled to provide immediate relief or comprehensive solutions that would alleviate the ongoing energy challenges.

  • Impact of power outages on citizens and businesses

  • The impact of power outages in both Samoa and Cuba extends beyond mere inconvenience, affecting every aspect of life from individual households to larger enterprises. In Samoa, the declared state of emergency highlights the urgency of the situation, with the Prime Minister describing the economic repercussions as potentially catastrophic. The widespread power rationing implemented by EPC means that residents often face daily blackouts lasting up to 16 hours, significantly affecting productivity, comfort, and health. Businesses, particularly in the tourism sector, are struggling to cope; local managers emphasize the necessity of alternate power sources, with many investing in generators to mitigate losses from ongoing outages. In Cuba, the power crises have fostered a sense of frustration among citizens, leading to widespread discontent with both service providers and the government. Frequent blackouts disrupt not only homes but also essential services such as healthcare, as hospitals struggle to maintain operations during outages. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable, as many rely on electricity to operate machinery, preserve goods, and maintain customer relations. The resulting drop in income has forced numerous small enterprises to close temporarily or reduce their services, thereby contributing to an increasingly volatile economic environment. Collectively, these power crises underscore the vital need for stable and robust energy infrastructure. Both nations illustrate how energy reliability is integral to societal function, economic performance, and the overall quality of life. Addressing these complex energy challenges is paramount for ensuring sustainable growth and improving resilience to future energy shocks.

Contributing Factors to Power Supply Issues

  • Infrastructure shortcomings in Samoa

  • The ongoing power crisis in Samoa is significantly rooted in infrastructure shortcomings, particularly concerning the state of its power generation and distribution systems. A critical incident that exemplifies this was the fault in the underground cable between the Fiaga and Fuluasou power plants, which resulted in a major blackout affecting the main island of Upolu. This incident, along with others, demonstrated the vulnerability of Samoa's energy infrastructure, which had already been under strain due to increased demand and external factors such as severe weather. Additionally, the failure of three key power generators has severely hampered the country's electricity supply, illustrating how dependent the nation is on a small number of aging and unreliable power sources. Furthermore, the government of Samoa has declared a state of emergency to facilitate quick repairs and the importation of temporary power generators. With large generators arriving from overseas as a stopgap measure while waiting for permanent solutions, the limitations of the current infrastructure are laid bare. The economic ramifications are profound, with estimates suggesting the crisis could cost up to 16% of Samoa's GDP. This situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive investments in both current infrastructure and long-term energy solutions to stabilize supply and support economic resilience.

  • Human errors in power management

  • Human error has played a substantial role in exacerbating power supply issues in both Samoa and Cuba. In Samoa, management failures regarding the operation and maintenance of power generation systems have been identified as key factors leading to the recent blackouts. The crises were not merely the result of infrastructural decay but also indicative of mismanagement and lack of proactive planning within the energy sector. For instance, the failures of backup generators during peak demand periods highlighted deficiencies in operational protocols and disaster preparedness. In the case of Cuba, the systemic issues within the country's electric utility services have also been attributed to poor managerial oversight and a lack of timely responses to known weaknesses in the power grid. Frequent nationwide blackouts have raised alarm among citizens and experts alike, reflecting chronic inefficiencies in both maintenance practices and strategic planning. Additionally, bureaucratic inertia and insufficient training of personnel further compound these human errors, leading to a culture of reactive rather than proactive management of energy resources. This pattern of mismanagement hinders the implementation of necessary reforms and ultimately diminishes public confidence in the energy sector.

  • Cuba's aging energy infrastructure and economic constraints

  • Cuba's power supply issues are largely attributable to its aging energy infrastructure, characterized by outdated generation plants and inadequate maintenance practices. The recent nationwide blackout, which left millions without electricity, is emblematic of the systemic challenges faced by the Cuban energy sector. A failure at the Diezmero substation initiated a cascade of events that culminated in a collapse of the National Electric System, underscoring the fragility of an already moribund infrastructure. The nation has faced repeated blackouts largely due to its failure to invest in modern energy technologies and maintain existing facilities, leading to systemic vulnerabilities. Compounding these infrastructure issues are significant economic constraints. Economic sanctions, particularly from the United States, have severely limited Cuba's ability to invest in new energy technologies and infrastructure improvements. The loss of revenue and hardship in securing foreign investments have resulted in a cycle of deterioration within Cuba's energy sector. Critics point out that continued reliance on traditional energy sources without diversification into renewable energy could exacerbate these crises further. As Cuba grapples with these intertwined challenges of aging infrastructure and economic hardship, the need for a comprehensive energy reform strategy grounded in investment and modernization becomes increasingly critical to mitigate future power supply issues.

Potential Resolutions and Strategies

  • Battery energy storage systems in Samoa

  • In response to the ongoing power crisis that has plagued Samoa since late February 2025, significant measures have been initiated to restore power stability. Central to these efforts are the battery energy storage systems (BESS) which have been deployed to optimize the integration of renewable energy sources and manage shortfalls in power generation. The Electric Power Corporation (EPC), supported by Tesla specialists, is currently working to ensure that these systems are fully operational. They monitor the performance of the battery storage units, which are designed to store 6 MW of energy produced from a network of solar farms across the island. These battery storage systems play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of power shortages, particularly after the failure of key infrastructure such as the HV underground cable that led to blackouts affecting approximately 200,000 residents on Upolu. Furthermore, with Samoa facing extensive power rationing due to daily power interruptions that can last up to 16 hours, BESS provides a viable bridge towards greater energy security while larger remedial actions are underway.| It is worth noting that the enhancement of battery systems goes hand in hand with the implementation of additional emergency measures which include sourcing five 5 MW rental generators from New Zealand. These are expected to complement existing efforts to stabilize the energy supply during this critical period, highlighting a larger strategic pivot toward resilient energy solutions as the nation fights to overcome its energy challenges.

  • Government responses and emergency measures

  • The Samoan government has acted decisively in response to the power crisis by declaring a 30-day state of emergency beginning on March 30, 2025. This emergency designation aims to expedite the implementation of essential measures to manage the energy supply, safeguard public health, and protect economic wellbeing. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, responding to escalating public concern, has made commitments to ensure cooperation with development partners to address the ongoing crisis that affects vast segments of the population and local businesses. The government is not only focusing on immediate solutions but also on longer-term strategies to avert a recurrence of such extensive outages. Emergency measures include procuring emergency rental generators expected to arrive shortly, alongside plans for initiating repairs on damaged generators to restore up to 5 MW of capacity back into the grid. These steps are vital in maintaining critical services in health care and other vital areas while addressing the economic fallout estimated to impact up to 16% of Samoa’s GDP. The unfolding situation is indicative of a broader narrative where immediate, tactical responses are required to manage the fallout while strategically thinking forward about infrastructural improvements and resilience to future systemic shocks.

  • Long-term strategies for infrastructure improvement in Cuba

  • As Cuba continues to grapple with chronic power supply failures and extensive blackouts, especially highlighted by a recent nationwide outage that marked the fourth such event in five months, a significant restructuring of its energy infrastructure appears imperative. The aging thermal power plants, largely constructed in the late 20th century, are beset by routine failures exacerbated by limited resources to purchase necessary fuel and maintain operational standards. The national effort to overhaul the energy strategy must focus on the diversification and modernization of energy sources to provide a more stable and reliable power supply. To address these systemic challenges, the Cuban government is racing against time to innovate its energy production capabilities by deploying a series of solar farms, leveraging technology from international partners, particularly from China. With plans to install at least 55 solar installations that promise to generate around 1,200 megawatts, or approximately 12% of the total national power requirement, this strategic orientation aims to pivot the nation away from a heavy reliance on failing thermal facilities. The integration of solar energy, which is less prone to disruptions compared to traditional generation methods, emerges as a pivotal long-term strategy. This transition represents not only a technical necessity but also a political imperative as the Cuban leadership looks to align its resources more efficiently and sustainably, effectively circumventing the limitations that have stemmed from external economic pressures, including the enduring U.S. trade embargo.

Economic Implications of Energy Stability

  • Impact of power supply on local economies

  • The stability of power supply plays a crucial role in the economic vitality of any region, especially in small island nations like Samoa and Cuba. In Samoa, the ongoing power crisis has significantly affected local businesses, particularly in the tourism sector, which relies heavily on dependable electricity. Airbnb operators have reported severe disruptions, with some stating that the lack of power is 'killing businesses.' The need to invest in backup generators has become a necessity for many, increasing operational costs and reducing profit margins. The disruptions have not only impacted financial stability but have also diminished the attractiveness of Samoa as a tourist destination, leading to a potential long-term decline in revenue from this crucial sector. In Cuba, the aging energy infrastructure coupled with economic constraints has led to chronic power outages, hampering business operations across various sectors. Local entrepreneurs face difficulties in maintaining a steady supply of electricity, essential for running equipment and meeting production demands. The inability to rely on stable energy sources can lead to increased operational costs as businesses are forced to invest in alternative power solutions like generators. This reliance on unstable power sources can stifle entrepreneurial growth and innovation, ultimately affecting the national economy.

  • The role of reliable energy in business operations

  • Reliable energy is a cornerstone of effective business operations. Companies require a constant electricity supply to power machinery, manage inventories, and maintain customer service standards. In Samoa, for instance, the Electric Power Corporation's (EPC) ongoing challenges have led to power rationing, disrupting business routines and consumer behavior. The unpredictability of energy availability forces businesses to divert funds towards contingency measures, such as the purchase of generators or accommodating for potential losses during power outages. Similarly, in Cuba, the struggle to maintain consistent electricity levels has resulted in interruptions that limit production schedules and market competitiveness. The reliance on outdated infrastructure compounds this issue, as the country’s economic strategies have not sufficiently adapted to address the growing energy demands of modern businesses. A stable energy supply is not only essential for sustaining existing enterprises but also for attracting foreign investment, which is critical for economic development.

  • Future outlook for energy policies in both nations

  • The future outlook for energy policies in both Samoa and Cuba is increasingly centered on investment in infrastructure and diversified energy solutions. Samoa's government is currently adopting strategic measures to address the immediate crises, including the implementation of emergency power supplies and the introduction of renewable energy projects such as a solar farm projected to launch by the end of 2025. These initiatives are designed not only to remedy the current power shortages but also to establish a more resilient energy framework that can support economic growth in the long term. For Cuba, the necessity to revamp the energy sector has become paramount. The ongoing struggles with an aging electrical grid call for significant reforms, including expansion of renewable energy sources and improved management practices. Future policies must focus on creating a sustainable and reliable energy supply that can support economic stability, reducing reliance on ineffective systems that have hindered growth. If both nations can harness the potential of renewable technologies and enhance their grid reliability, they will likely improve their economic prospects and reduce vulnerability to future energy crises.

Wrap Up

  • The ongoing crises in energy supply in Samoa and Cuba effectively highlight the paramount importance of reliable electricity access for sustaining economic stability and promoting societal welfare. The challenges faced by each nation vividly illustrate how deficiencies in infrastructure, combined with inadequate management practices, can result in widespread disruptions impacting households and businesses alike. As they grapple with the immediate consequences of these crises, it is vital that both governments prioritize strategic approaches to revitalize their energy sectors. This could include a focus on diversifying energy resources, investing in renewable energy technologies, and enhancing grid reliability to mitigate future outages.

  • In Samoa, the deployment of innovative solutions such as battery energy storage systems and government coordination with international partners for emergency measures represents a crucial step toward restoring stability. Similarly, Cuba’s initiative to modernize its aging infrastructure and develop solar energy capabilities signals a commitment to confronting the root causes of its ongoing energy challenges. Addressing these complex issues will inevitably require a multi-faceted strategy, bringing together various stakeholders and leveraging international expertise. As both nations move forward, their ability to overcome these energy hurdles will define the trajectory of their economic recovery and resilience, ultimately shaping a future where energy stability is no longer a distant goal, but a tangible reality.

Glossary

  • Electric Power Corporation (EPC) [Company]: The government-owned utility company responsible for supplying electricity in Samoa, involved in managing power generation and distribution.
  • Upolu [Location]: The main island of Samoa, significantly affected by recent power outages and home to approximately 200,000 residents.
  • high-voltage cable [Technology]: A type of electrical cable designed to transmit electricity at high voltages, crucial for efficient power distribution but vulnerable to faults.
  • state of emergency [Event]: A governmental declaration that allows for expedited measures to address crises, including enhancing public safety and managing resources effectively.
  • battery energy storage systems (BESS) [Technology]: Systems developed to store energy generated from renewable sources, helping to manage supply shortfalls and enhance stability in electricity provision.
  • solar farms [Technology]: Large-scale installations of solar panels designed to convert sunlight into electricity, contributing to renewable energy generation.
  • renewable energy projects [Concept]: Initiatives aimed at generating energy from renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydro, promoting sustainability and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
  • economic constraints [Concept]: Limitations imposed by a country’s economic situation that hinder investment and development, particularly relevant in contexts like Cuba's energy sector.
  • Blackouts [Event]: Temporary interruptions in electrical supply leading to a complete loss of power in affected areas, significantly impacting daily life and economic activities.
  • embargo [Document]: A governmental order restricting trade with certain countries, which in Cuba's case has exacerbated economic hardships and limited resources for energy maintenance.

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