The Cuban regime is preparing to unveil the Ciego Norte Photovoltaic Solar Park in Ciego de Ávila province, boasting a generation capacity of 21.87 megawatts (MW). This project is currently in its final assembly stage. According to a Facebook post by the publication Invasor, the park is expected to integrate with the National Electric System (SEN) by the end of this month, amidst an ongoing energy crisis severely impacting the Cuban populace.
An Ambitious Plan Amidst Crisis
On March 1, the government inaugurated the "Alcade Mayor" photovoltaic solar park in Cienfuegos, with a 21 MW capacity, as part of its strategy to boost renewable energy and decrease reliance on fossil fuels. This was followed by the launch of the "Escuela de Enfermería" in Havana, featuring 42,588 solar panels and a 21.8 MW capacity. These initiatives are part of an investment plan aiming to establish 46 solar parks with a total generation of 1,200 MW by the end of 2025.
Despite these announcements, public skepticism remains high due to a history of unfulfilled promises and the precarious state of the national electric system. While new investments in renewable energy are declared, the SEN continues to falter with generation deficits exceeding 1,500 MW, leading to daily rationing and continuous blackouts across multiple provinces.
China's Role in Cuba's Renewable Energy Strategy
In its quest to strengthen renewable energy, the Cuban government has received backing from China. During the Havana International Fair last November, Hangzhou Duojia Technology Co. Ltd reaffirmed its commitment to the island's energy transition, claiming solar panels are the "ultimate solution" to Cuba's electric crisis. According to company president Qiaoming Huang, containers of solar panels and lithium batteries have been dispatched to Cuba for small commercial projects. In April 2024, an agreement was signed between the Cuban government and China to expand solar energy usage on the island's electric grid. However, details on financing this mega-project remain undisclosed.
Additionally, the Ministry of Energy and Mines announced in November a more ambitious plan: installing 2,000 MW of solar energy by 2028, with the first phase of 1,000 MW slated to begin operations in the summer of 2025, echoing a similar promise made last February.
Real Solution or Mere Band-Aid?
Despite government efforts to portray these solar parks as a step towards energy independence, the reality on the island is still characterized by persistent blackouts and an outdated electric infrastructure. In recent months, power cuts have reached alarming levels, with prolonged outages and energy availability far below demand. The absence of a clear strategy to maintain SEN stability makes the construction of solar parks appear more like propaganda than an effective solution to a crisis that continues to burden Cubans.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba's Solar Energy Projects
What is the capacity of the Ciego Norte Photovoltaic Solar Park?
The Ciego Norte Photovoltaic Solar Park has a generation capacity of 21.87 megawatts (MW).
How many solar parks does the Cuban government plan to establish by 2025?
The Cuban government plans to establish 46 solar parks with a total generation of 1,200 MW by the end of 2025.
What role does China play in Cuba's renewable energy strategy?
China plays a significant role by supplying solar panels and lithium batteries and has signed agreements to expand solar energy usage in Cuba's electric grid.