The government installs solar panels on traffic lights in Havana

Amid a prolonged energy crisis that keeps Havana facing daily blackouts and non-functional traffic lights, the Cuban government has begun installing solar panels at key intersections throughout the city to ensure the continuous operation of the traffic signaling systems.

In the Facebook group "ACCIDENTES BUSES & CAMIONES for more experience and fewer victims!", user Yoel Herrera celebrated the presence of two panels at an important intersection in Marianao, known for its heavy traffic and danger.

"Finally, a good piece of news amidst so many setbacks. Ideally, they would never turn off the electricity, that’s true. But well, I hope this temporary solution brings some relief to the drivers who pass daily through 100 and 51," he remarked.

The initiative has sparked mixed reactions, ranging from hope for a lasting solution to skepticism and concerns about the safety of the equipment.

In the comments section, engineer Octavio Duarte Aguirre reported that the device is equipped with a surveillance camera, in an effort to deter possible acts of vandalism or theft.

It was also announced that there are plans to install more panels on Vía Blanca and Calzada de 10 de Octubre, but priority will be given to Carlos III Avenue first.

Most of the comments expressed support for the initiative, viewing it as a reasonable response to a problem that has caused distress and accidents.

"Good solution, that's how everyone should be," wrote one user, while another said, "Excellent idea that should be implemented everywhere, as it truly is a very dangerous intersection (100 and 51)."

However, not everyone shares the enthusiasm.

A skeptical participant wondered, "Let's see how long this lasts," referring to the system's durability in the face of the city's challenging technical and social conditions.

Other comments expressed concern about the security of the new equipment: "Better keep watch, because at any moment the panel, the batteries, and everything else could disappear," warned a reader.

Another person posed an ironic question: "Has the custodian position been opened yet?"

The fear of theft is not unfounded. The scarcity of materials and power outages have led to an increase in thefts in Cuba, including from public infrastructure.

"I hope nobody thinks of borrowing it to put it in their home. Connect them to an alarm system linked to the nearest PNR..." suggested another internet user.

Background of a critical situation

The installation of solar panels seeks to address a situation that has been worsening in recent years.

In November, CiberCuba reported that the lack of electrical power had taken many traffic lights out of service in the capital, leading to a series of accidents and traffic chaos in high-traffic areas.

An alarming incident was reported at the intersection of Monte and Belascoaín, near the busy Mercado de Cuatro Caminos, where the lack of signage turned the road into a true battleground, according to a video sent to the editorial team. The footage depicted a scene ruled by the law of “every man for himself.”

Other reports indicated similar failures at locations such as Vía Blanca and Calzada de 10 de Octubre (Agua Dulce), Cristina and Matadero (Cuatro Caminos), Concha and Cristina, and 23 and J, all of which are intersections with high traffic density.

In October, the lack of traffic control was the main cause of a collision between a gas truck and a Pontiac car. And in June, an incident in Miramar raised alarms about the overall deterioration of the traffic light system.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Installation of Solar Panels on Traffic Lights in Havana