Amid a growing energy crisis in Cuba, the Unión Eléctrica (UNE) stated that the solar parks installed in the country are designed to withstand hurricanes of high intensity, even category 4, with winds of up to 228 km/h.
The statement was published on the wall of the state entity, where data from the book "Photovoltaic Energy for Cuba" by Professor Daniel Stolik, regarded as a pioneer in this field, is cited.
According to UNE, the solar modules installed on the Island have passed wind and hail resistance tests conducted by the manufacturers themselves, and they have an estimated lifespan of 25 years.
Additionally, the publication notes that they are strategically distributed across the national territory, which theoretically prevents everyone from being affected simultaneously by an extreme weather event.
Among the factors that would increase their resistance are the low height of the panels, their southward inclination, the row design that mitigates the wind, the presence of natural obstacles, and the terrain relief.
Despite these supposed advantages, reactions from citizens on social media were swift.
The comments on the post were filled with doubts, criticisms, and sarcasm, reflecting the distrust built up over years of unfulfilled promises.
"I'm going to save this for when the first gentle banana breeze comes and they themselves say that the panels were affected by the winds," wrote a user.
Another internet user questioned: "What happened to the solar park when the cyclone passed through Mariel? According to the TV, 50% was damaged, and more than a million dollars was needed to repair it."
There were also those who pointed out the contrast with international standards.
An engineer pointed out that in countries like the United States, solar farms that withstand hurricanes are built with deep concrete foundations and reinforced structures, elements whose quality and presence in Cuban parks are in question.
The debate takes place following the recent inauguration of the La Barbarita solar park in Consolación del Sur, Pinar del Río, right in the middle of a series of power outages.
Yulié Salgado Barrizonte, the director of the project's construction, stated that the Chinese system used is not designed to be dismantled in the face of extreme weather events, and that in previous experiences the damage after hurricanes like Ian was "almost negligible."
Despite these official statements, the energy infrastructure of the Island continues to be in full collapse: obsolete thermoelectric plants, lack of maintenance, and fuel shortages characterize the situation.
Photovoltaic generation, for its part, barely accounts for 5% of the national energy matrix, and its main limitation is the lack of storage systems, which hinders the nighttime use of electricity generated during the day.
The leader Miguel Díaz-Canel has promised a substantial improvement in energy capacity with the installation of new solar parks, anticipating 500 MW for the first half of this year and 1,200 MW by the end of 2025.
The official goal is to reach 2,000 MW of solar energy by 2030.
In recent months, the inauguration of several photovoltaic parks has come to light amidst the severe energy crisis in the country.
However, at street level, the population continues to suffer from prolonged power outages and a lack of concrete information about the tangible benefits of these investments.
"I couldn't care less if a hurricane takes them away; after all, there's never any power," stated a user, summarizing the sentiment of many Cubans regarding what they perceive as yet another empty promise with no visible results.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Resistance of Cuban Solar Parks to Hurricanes and the Energy Crisis in Cuba
Are the solar parks in Cuba prepared to withstand hurricanes?
The Electric Union of Cuba assures that the solar parks are designed to withstand hurricanes of up to category 4, with winds of up to 228 km/h. According to the government, the solar modules have been tested for wind and hail resistance and have a lifespan of 25 years. However, there is skepticism among the population due to past experiences of significant damage in similar events.
What is the current contribution of solar parks to Cuba's energy matrix?
The photovoltaic generation accounts for only 5% of the national energy matrix in Cuba. Despite the government's efforts to increase solar energy capacity, the lack of storage systems and limited infrastructure prevent this energy source from significantly addressing the country's energy crisis.
Why haven't solar parks resolved the energy crisis in Cuba?
Solar parks, while they help to partially alleviate blackouts during the day, are not a comprehensive solution to Cuba's energy crisis. The lack of storage capacity and outdated electrical infrastructure limit their effectiveness. Additionally, solar generation cannot meet the needs during the night, when demand is at its peak. The Cuban regime acknowledges that an increase in generation from all available technologies is necessary to address the issue.
What are the promises of the Cuban government regarding solar parks?
President Miguel Díaz-Canel has promised to install new solar parks to generate over 500 MW in the first half of this year and 1,200 MW by the end of 2025, with a goal of 2,000 MW by 2030. However, these promises face skepticism due to a history of unfulfilled commitments and the ongoing energy crisis the country is experiencing.
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