The Cuban government has once again made one of its typical promises regarding energy recovery, this time claiming it will establish 55 solar parks with a combined capacity of 1,200 megawatts (MW) before the end of 2025. This announcement came during the annual review session of the Ministry of Energy and Mines at the Palacio de Convenciones in Havana. It adds to a long history of unmet commitments, as the nation continues to endure persistent blackouts and the collapse of the National Electric System (SEN).
The event was attended by the appointed leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, alongside Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz and the Minister of Energy and Mines, Vicente de la O Levy. The NTV report highlighted the presence of Commander Ramiro Valdés Menéndez and Deputy Prime Minister Ricardo Cabrisas Ruiz, who attempted to gloss over the energy crisis with repetitive propaganda announcements that have seen no success in recent years.
Solar Park Propaganda: A New Diversion Tactic
Marrero Cruz stated that the regime's strategy involves building between five and six photovoltaic solar parks each month, aiming to conclude 2025 with 1,200 MW of renewable energy installed. "The first two parks are nearly completed, and the intensive process underway will allow us to make significant progress, reaching 1,000 to 1,200 MW by year's end. This will have a major impact," Marrero declared, echoing the same rhetoric the regime has repeatedly used without tangible outcomes.
The Prime Minister assured that by July 2025, they expect to complete 27 solar parks contributing 590 MW, although past experiences show these numbers are mere announcements to appease public discontent. Historically, the government has promised improvements that never materialized, while people continue to endure power outages lasting up to 20 hours daily in some areas.
The Collapse of SEN and Lack of Real Solutions
Despite the regime's accumulating promises, the reality is that Cuba's energy system remains in a dire state. The thermoelectric plants operate with outdated technology, lacking maintenance and the capability to produce the necessary energy. De la O Levy himself admitted that "2025 has significant goals and commitments, including the recovery of distributed generation and planned maintenance of thermal power plants."
However, he failed to specify how they intend to achieve these supposed goals when the infrastructure is deteriorating and there is no access to financing or technology for sustainable recovery.
Continued Excuses and Reliance on Imports
The director of the Cuban Electric Union (UNE), Alfredo López Valdés, acknowledged that the country will continue to rely on importing essential components for the electric system. "Many components that were not previously manufactured in the country will be produced in Cuba. Yet, some will still need to be imported," he stated, revealing the absence of a structural solution to the energy crisis.
The Ministry of Energy and Mines' review also addressed issues such as combating crime and digitalizing services, in a bid to divert attention from the ongoing crisis affecting Cubans.
Repression as the Only Response to the Crisis
While the government continues to make empty promises, public outrage grows over the lack of electricity and the deepening economic crisis. Recently, dissatisfaction has led to sporadic and spontaneous protests in several provinces, to which the regime has responded with repression and arbitrary arrests.
"We want to acknowledge the work being done, and we are convinced that this will be a much better year for this sector," concluded Vicente de la O Levy, a statement that underscores the cynicism of a regime that has driven the SEN to collapse and remains in power solely through its repressive apparatus.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What are the planned solar energy developments in Cuba?
The Cuban government has announced plans to build 55 solar parks with a capacity of 1,200 MW by the end of 2025 as part of its renewable energy strategy.
How has the Cuban energy system been affected in recent years?
Cuba's energy system is in a critical state, with outdated thermoelectric plants and frequent blackouts, exacerbating the country's economic challenges.
Why is Cuba relying on imports for its energy system?
Despite efforts to manufacture components locally, Cuba still depends on importing key parts due to a lack of resources and technology for a comprehensive energy solution.