In the face of Cuba's ongoing energy crisis, a woman from Matanzas has taken to TikTok to share her journey towards partial independence from the state's unreliable electricity supply. She achieved this by installing a solar panel at her home, a solution gaining traction among Cubans.
"After countless nights without power, we finally have electricity thanks to the solar panel and battery," the woman explained in her video, which has garnered thousands of views on social media.
She revealed that she purchased the system in Matanzas. "The EcoFlow cost me about $800 and the solar panel was $190. In the United States, they're much cheaper, but here you have to pay dearly and buy them in parts," she noted.
To ensure proper installation, she hired an electrician to separate the solar panel and battery from the state grid, thereby preventing potential damage. "It's crucial to use the right fuses and cables because many EcoFlow units have been damaged by poor installations," she warned.
The video showcases the connection process between the roof-mounted solar panel, the battery, and the home's electrical system. "With 400 watts, I can run the washing machine, keep the lights on, use the computer, and charge phones. I can even connect the refrigerator," she shared proudly.
As power outages in Cuba become increasingly prolonged, many citizens are turning to similar solutions, although their high cost remains prohibitive for most.
On the informal Cuban market, a solar energy system can easily exceed a thousand dollars, a figure equivalent to over two years of the average salary on the island.
The story of this young woman from Matanzas highlights the ingenuity and determination of Cubans striving to endure the electric crisis, as the regime fails to provide effective solutions for a stable and affordable service.
Understanding Solar Power Solutions in Cuba
Why are solar panels expensive in Cuba?
Solar panels are costly in Cuba due to import restrictions, limited availability, and reliance on the informal market where prices are inflated compared to international standards.
What can a 400-watt solar system power in a Cuban household?
A 400-watt solar system can power essential household items such as lights, computers, phones, and small appliances like a refrigerator, providing significant relief during power outages.
How does the Cuban energy crisis affect daily life?
The energy crisis in Cuba results in frequent power outages, severely disrupting daily activities and prompting citizens to seek alternative solutions like solar energy to maintain a semblance of normalcy.