A recent report from the Canal Caribe has highlighted Ciego de Ávila as one of the most advanced provinces in Cuba in the use of renewable energy sources. According to the television report, the territory could become one of the first in the country to meet its electricity demand during peak midday hours thanks to its solar parks.
The informational piece highlighted that the “Carolina” solar park has generated over 466 MW since its launch, and that Ciego de Ávila currently has an installed capacity of 52 MW in photovoltaic energy.
Local authorities assert that more than 50% of the electricity demand during the hours of 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. would be supplied by this source.
Additionally, the construction of new parks was announced, which in 2025 would raise the capacity to 108 MW, supposedly allowing for the coverage of the entire electrical demand at noon.
However, while the official press celebrates these figures as a strategic achievement, the people of Avileño react with outrage and skepticism on social media. "Here in Ciego de Ávila, we have three hours of electricity a day", commented one user. Another was more emphatic: "I don't remember the last time we had electricity for an entire midday".
Citizen criticism highlights that prolonged blackouts, lasting up to 15 hours in some areas, contradict any narrative of energy self-sufficiency.
“Stop fooling the public by saying that the parks meet the province's demand. That is allocated across the entire country, mainly to Havana, which consumes the most and suffers the least interruptions”, wrote another visibly upset commenter.
Several users also pointed out the human cost of the energy crisis, mentioning the difficulties of caring for the sick and elderly, the inability to preserve food, and the deep emotional exhaustion caused by living in extreme conditions. "It’s a tragedy to live in Cuba. I’m not ashamed to say it; it’s the truth, and the truth must be told. Mercy,” expressed a woman in a desperate tone.
This type of triumphalist discourse occurs within a political context where the regime has intensified its propaganda machinery to celebrate that Ciego de Ávila has been designated as the venue for the official activities of July 26.
On June 14th, after the news broke, amidst a blackout, the authorities deployed a convoy with motorcycles, Ladas honking their horns, flags waving, and slogans being repeated without visible enthusiasm.
The show contrasted sharply with the darkness that envelops the province, food shortages, issues with the supply of drinking water —only 280 liters per second are received out of the 600 needed— and nearly constant blackouts.
A video sent to CiberCuba by a neighbor showed the official caravan moving through the city while it remained in darkness. The public reaction was one of indifference, frustration, and rejection.
The ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel himself congratulated the province on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the recognition is due to the "effort, perseverance, and talent of its people." However, for many residents of Ávila, those words are yet another insult.
Far from generating trust or hope, the official report seems to have further fueled public discontent. While there are claims of goals being met and investments in clean energy, the population experiences the opposite: darkness, heat, and an increasing sense of neglect.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis and Solar Parks in Ciego de Ávila, Cuba
Is it true that Ciego de Ávila could be energy self-sufficient with solar power?
No, the energy self-sufficiency of Ciego de Ávila is highly questioned due to the prolonged blackouts experienced by the population. Despite advancements in solar energy, power outages and uneven distribution continue to severely affect the people of Avilés.
How do the people of Avila react to claims of progress in solar energy?
The reaction of the people from Avilés is one of indignation and skepticism. Many residents report that, despite claims of progress, power outages are frequent and prolonged, which contradicts the statements of energy self-sufficiency promoted by the government.
What are the main criticisms of the Cuban government regarding the energy crisis?
The main criticisms focus on the lack of transparency and ineffective management of the national electrical system. The population accuses the regime of prioritizing propaganda over real solutions, while living conditions worsen with constant blackouts and shortages of basic resources.
What is the impact of solar parks on the daily life of Cubans?
The impact of solar parks on the daily lives of Cubans is limited and does not resolve the energy crisis. Although multiple parks have been built, solar generation remains insufficient to meet demand, and blackouts continue to significantly affect the population.
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