Cuba is facing a severe water shortage that has worsened amid ongoing energy disruptions linked to a U.S. blockade, leading residents and businesses to seek alternative sources of water. In Matanzas province, east of Havana, restaurant owner Kevin Martinez has taken the unusual step of drilling a well on his property to maintain his water supply, an investment he describes as costly but necessary to keep operations running.

According to official figures, nearly 29 percent of Cuba’s population of 9.4 million lacks regular access to water, a situation that has deteriorated since January following increased energy restrictions imposed by the United States. The crisis has resulted in frequent and prolonged power outages, which in turn disrupt water delivery as most systems rely on electric pumps.

“Several times we had to close because there was no water,” Martinez said, explaining that drilling the well provided a more reliable and cost-effective solution compared to relying on water deliveries that occur only three times a week. Similar challenges are faced by millions of Cubans, with Yunior Gonzalez of the national water company estimating that water for 2.7 million people depends on pumping, and efforts to maintain the infrastructure have been hampered by equipment failures, leaks, and drought conditions.

The scarcity has forced many residents to transport water manually, often using wheelbarrows, bicycles, or even horse-drawn carts to bring containers from public sources to their homes. In Havana’s old town, 30-year-old Maykel Aguilar described the daily effort of filling multiple containers at a spring, then hauling the water upstairs to his residence. “One little trip is enough for laundry, cleaning, and cooking, and just like that you’re out of water,” he said. For others, including 40-year-old mother of two Yusimy Guerra, persistent power outages mean ongoing struggles to secure enough water for household needs.

The shortages have come amid broader economic difficulties in Cuba, including rising inflation and shortages of food and medicine, factors contributing to increasing social tensions. Recent months have seen several protests, many led by women, in Havana municipalities drawing attention to the deteriorating water situation.

In response, more Cubans are drilling private wells, installing cisterns, and connecting water tanks to their homes—sometimes illegally tapping water from mains, which can reduce pressure and complicate supply for neighbors. Well digger Elizardo Cardoso, who located water at a depth of 10 meters for Martinez’s restaurant, noted a significant rise in demand for his services.

Authorities are also seeking long-term solutions by shifting to alternative energy sources to power water infrastructure. Gonzalez highlighted that over 870 solar-powered water pumps have been installed across the country, with plans for 1,300 total installations, servicing around half a million people. Additionally, Havana’s Albear Aqueduct—the city’s principal water source—recently acquired two new diesel-powered backup generators to mitigate disruptions. However, government officials acknowledge these programs are costly and will require ongoing investment to stabilize the water supply amid continuing challenges.