Cuba warns of energy problems, cuts some work hours

HAVANA – Cuban officials are warning of tough times in the energy sector, with authorities ordering power-saving measures and some state entities reducing hours of operation.

Banks and currency exchange houses have begun running air conditioning just three hours a day during the sweltering summer.

Tourism Ministry official Yamila Rombaut says fuel allotments for her ministry’s vehicles have been cut in half. She says the outlook is “tight” and predicts “difficult months.”

Sporadic blackouts have sparked rumours and concerns among Cubans about belt-tightening.

Marino Murillo is Cuba’s vice-president in charge of economic matters. Communist Party newspaper Granma said Tuesday that he told parliament members problems in the energy sector “demand strict savings and efficient use of energy and fuels.”

Authorities are aiming to avoid widespread blackouts and hits to basic services.