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Amid an unprecedented energy crisis, the Electric Union of Cuba (UNE) has intensified its media campaign on the construction of solar parks and, in less than 24 hours, its Facebook page published nine updates highlighting progress in photovoltaic projects.
An example of this is the publication announcing the work being done on a solar park in Camagüey, which the state-owned company accompanied with photographs and the following message: “Solar panels are already visible at the Luaces Photovoltaic Solar Park, which will fulfill its commitment to complete this significant investment by April.”
However, while these developments are being promoted, the daily reality of Cubans is grim. The lack of investment in electrical infrastructure and the dependence on imported fossil fuels have pushed the energy system to the brink of collapse.
Currently, only six out of the 15 thermal power plants are operational, and the fuel shortage prevents the use of diesel generators, which worsens the situation. This crisis has forced the government to close schools and urge non-essential workers to stay home.
Despite efforts to promote renewable energy, it accounts for less than 5% of the national energy matrix.
The government has announced plans to build 55 solar parks with a total capacity of 1,200 megawatts by the end of 2025, but the lack of investment and the incompetence of the “continuity” government led by Miguel Díaz-Canel raise questions about the feasibility of these projects.
For a decade, Cuban authorities have been proclaiming their commitment to the transition to cleaner energy sources.
In 2014, a policy was approved for the development of renewable sources and the efficient use of energy, with the initial goal of achieving 24% of electricity generation from renewable energies by 2030, a target that was later raised to 37%.
However, progress has been limited, and the dependence on fossil fuels remains dominant.
Recently, in November 2024, the Chinese company Hangzhou Duojia Technology expressed its support for the Cuban plan to significantly increase solar energy generation, highlighting the collaboration between both countries to harness the island's solar potential.
However, experts point out that without a radical change in the economic model and effective management, the electricity sector will continue to face recurring collapses.
Meanwhile, the population continues to face prolonged blackouts that impact all aspects of daily life, from food preservation to healthcare.
The general perception is that the promotion of renewable energy projects serves more as a propaganda distraction than as a tangible solution to the energy crisis plaguing the country.
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