The information announced by Cuba's state-owned power company marks the latest nationwide power outage in recent years, and the first since the US cut off oil supplies to the island of about 10 million people.
The Cuban state-owned power company said that efforts are being made to restore electricity nationwide, and no errors were detected in the operating power units at the time of the power grid collapse.
Cuba relies heavily on oil for electricity production. Washington's blockade of fuel shipments has exacerbated the country's energy crisis, causing power outages, limited distribution of medical supplies and reduced number of tourists.
Fuel prices have skyrocketed to the point where gasoline can cost up to 9 USD per liter on the informal market, meaning it costs more than 300 USD to fill a car's fuel tank.
On March 13, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said that no oil had been transported to the island nation in the past 3 months. He also announced that Cuban officials had negotiated with the US to "determine bilateral issues that need to be resolved".
The impact is very large, most clearly shown in energy issues" - Cuban President said.
To cope with the energy crisis, the Cuban government has announced emergency measures including reducing school hours, postponing major sports and cultural events, and cutting transportation services. Many hospitals have cut services.
Airlines from many countries have canceled flights to Cuba due to lack of aviation fuel and other security issues. American Airlines, Delta and Jet Blue have temporarily suspended services to this Caribbean island nation.
Last month, Canada's largest airline - Air Canada announced a temporary suspension of flights to Cuba due to lack of aviation fuel on the island. The service suspension is expected to last until November 1.
