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The Cuban police captured the perpetrators of the theft of more than 50 beams and solar panels from the Juan Pérez II Photovoltaic Park, in Niquero, Granma
The official account Entérate con Aytana Alama reported on the incidents without providing details about the detainees, leading many to speculate about their possible employment connection to the site of the robbery.
The more than 50 beams and the panels, the quantity of which was not specified ("a few"), were "stored and not among those that were operational."
This is not the first time that thefts have occurred in these parks, which are of strategic interest to the Cuban regime. With this type of information, the government also attempts to divert attention from the public's discontent over the constant blackouts and, at the same time, warns that any manifestation in this regard will be “exemplarily” punished.
In June, two individuals were arrested and charged with the theft of five metal beams from a solar park still under construction in Colón, Matanzas.
"The authorities intercepted Ariel Andrés Hernández while he was transporting five metal beams measuring between 3 and 4 meters in length on an electric tricycle, in the vicinity of the Perico-Colón road, at the entrance of the latter town," said an official source.
The beams had been acquired with the complicity of Juan Manuel Contreras Ordóñez, the custodian of the photovoltaic park located on the Deseada farm.
In February, the police of the municipality of Jovellanos, also in Matanzas, discovered that stolen items from the photovoltaic park were being sold in the local market.
Major Yadira Prieto Vega, head of instruction at MININT, explained that specialists from the park identified the stolen screws that self-employed individuals were selling illegally, as these are components that are not available through any other channels.
"They are being used in the assembly, both of the tables and for the installation of the solar panels directly," he detailed in the television news.
The police investigation has not yet been able to determine who stole the screws from the construction site or how they made their way to the market. So far, only a certain amount has been recovered.
In December 2024, the theft of solar panels that provide energy to the water pumping systems in rural communities of Las Tunas, where there is no access to water, became known.
The regime has warned that those involved in these thefts could be charged with the crime of sabotage—which carries harsher penalties—since these actions are related to the national electric power system.
Frequently Asked Questions about the theft at the Granma solar park and the energy crisis in Cuba
What happened at the Juan Pérez II solar park in Granma?
The Juan Pérez II solar park in Granma was the victim of a theft involving over 50 beams and solar panels. The stolen items were stored and did not form part of the operational panels. Authorities have apprehended those responsible, although details regarding the detainees have not been disclosed.
What is the impact of thefts in solar parks on Cuba's energy crisis?
These thefts exacerbate the already precarious energy situation in the country, making it even more difficult to meet the goals of electric generation through renewable energies. The Cuban government is betting on solar energy to mitigate the energy crisis, but these incidents reveal security and management issues that need to be addressed in order to move forward.
What measures is the Cuban government taking in response to thefts at solar parks?
The Cuban government has warned that those involved in these thefts could be charged with sabotage, which carries harsher penalties. This measure aims to deter future incidents and protect the strategic facilities essential for the country's electrical supply.
Why don't solar parks solve the energy deficit in Cuba?
Although multiple solar parks are being built, the energy generated is not enough to meet the total energy demand of the island. Furthermore, the lack of storage systems restricts the use of solar energy to daylight hours, leaving the energy deficit unaddressed during nighttime when demand is higher.
How does the lack of security in solar parks affect the Cuban population?
The lack of security in solar parks leads to thefts that disrupt the plans for improving electricity supply, perpetuating the prolonged blackouts that affect the daily lives of the Cuban population. Without reliable energy, everyday activities and the country's economy are severely impacted.
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