Cuba invests in renewable energy to counter power crisis
The Cuban government is planning significant investments in photovoltaic parks and wind farms to address the severe energy crisis on the island that has been ongoing for several months. Authorities in Havana also aim to support citizens in installing solar panels.
The Minister of Energy and Mining, Vicente de la O Levy, informed the parliament that in 2025, key investments will include projects in renewable energy sources, particularly solar panels.
He mentioned that the ministry will promote these initiatives to increase the share of renewable energy in the national energy system.
According to the Polish Press Agency, citing the Cubadebate portal, de la O Levy provided an example of a "donation received from China" in the form of solar panels.
These panels are expected to boost the country's electric power by at least 120 MW. The minister noted that the authorities already have 10,500 batteries for photovoltaic panels, which will be gradually integrated into the energy system.
In 2025, the government also plans to provide 5,000 photovoltaic systems for households. De la O Levy explained that the authorities would support citizens in installing solar panels to enhance access to electricity.
An important element in tackling the energy crisis will be the wind farm planned for several years in collaboration with China, in Las Tunas in the eastern part of the island. This investment is expected to significantly strengthen the national energy system.
Since October, Cuba has experienced a total paralysis of the national energy system three times due to a failure at the main Antonio Guiteras power plant in Matanzas in the western part of the country. The UNE company, responsible for electricity supply, claims that the problems arise from two hurricanes that hit the island in the fall, as well as numerous breakdowns and repairs in power plants.
