The Jovellanos II photovoltaic solar park, located in the province of Matanzas, is in the process of synchronization for its startup and integration into the National Electric System (SEN).
This was reported this Sunday by the official journalist from Matanzas, José Miguel Solís, in his daily update on the energy situation in Cuba. In a post on Facebook, he emphasized that "the Jovellanos II photovoltaic park is synchronizing in the startup phase."
This Friday, the provincial government had specified that final details were being finalized at the renewable energy station for its commissioning, assuring that the park was already in its "final phase" and would synchronize with the SEN on March 27.
The Jovellanos park covers 28 hectares and is expected to contribute around 21.87 megawatts of clean energy.
It is the first one to be finalized, of the three planned to be operational in Matanzas in 2025.
Two weeks ago, Alejandro Rodríguez Azpeitia, provincial director of the Electric Company in Matanzas, had mentioned that they were in the final phase of the installation, checking all the equipment.
In the province, another solar park is also being built in the village of Hoyo Colorado in the municipality of Martí.
Currently, it is in the construction phase, said the executive of the Electric Company, who stated that tables and panels are being installed. However, he acknowledged that the biggest delays are related to the perimeter lighting, due to the delay in acquiring the bases for the streetlights.
In recent months, the inauguration of several photovoltaic parks amidst a severe energy crisis in the country has come to light.
The ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel promised an improvement with the installation of these systems that will generate more than 500 MW of solar energy in the first half of this year.
In addition, he committed to having 55 solar parks built by the end of 2025, with a capacity of 1,200 MW.
The country continues to suffer from constant blackouts, and the National Electrical System (SEN) keeps collapsing, raising doubts about the feasibility of the ambitious goals set by the government.
The electric landscape in Cuba remains critical. The Unión Eléctrica (UNE) reported that this Sunday, an impact of up to 1,130 MW is expected during peak hours, amid a widespread deficit that has made power outages a daily occurrence across the country.
The government's new approach to renewable sources, especially solar energy, comes at a time when the electrical system is deeply deteriorated after years of neglect, lack of maintenance, and scarce investment in the country's aging thermal power plants.
This week, the Cuban government received the first batch of equipment donated by China for the installation of solar photovoltaic parks, as part of a joint project aimed at adding 120 megawatts (MW) to the deteriorated national electric system (SEN).
However, specialists and citizens agree that, while the development of solar energy is a necessary step, it will not be enough to resolve the structural crisis facing the system, much less to end the prolonged and frequent blackouts that affect the daily lives of millions of Cubans.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Jovellanos II Photovoltaic Park and the Energy Crisis in Cuba
What is the objective of the Jovellanos II Photovoltaic Park in Matanzas?
The Jovellanos II Photovoltaic Park is designed to provide approximately 21.87 megawatts of clean energy, thereby contributing to Cuba's National Electric System (SEN). This project is part of a government strategy to increase the capacity for renewable energy generation in the country, amidst a severe energy crisis characterized by frequent blackouts.
What challenges does Cuba face in implementing its solar energy plan?
Cuba faces significant challenges such as a lack of investment, fuel shortages, and outdated infrastructure. Furthermore, dependence on foreign technologies and the current economic difficulties complicate the feasibility of these large-scale projects. Skepticism persists among the population due to a history of unfulfilled promises by the Cuban regime.
How does China contribute to the development of solar energy in Cuba?
China has donated equipment for the installation of photovoltaic solar parks in Cuba, as part of a joint project aimed at adding 120 megawatts to the deteriorated national electrical system. Cooperation with China is seen as an attempt to alleviate the energy crisis, although projections face challenges from an obsolete and poorly managed system.
What impact do solar parks have on the current energy crisis in Cuba?
Solar parks are presented as a solution to reduce blackouts and dependence on fossil fuels. However, the energy crisis remains critical, with a National Electric System that has not managed to stabilize. The Cuban population continues to face prolonged blackouts, and the concrete results of these investments are yet to be seen.
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