The Cuban government's latest attempt at addressing the nation's chronic power outages came with promises but lacked clear actions, as Energy and Mines Minister Vicente de la O Levy introduced a governmental plan on December 17 for the recovery of the beleaguered national electrical system. The aim is to provide a definitive, long-term solution to the energy crisis crippling the country. "This is a plan aimed at finding sustainable alternatives and solutions, closely tied to the energy transition. It concerns our capacity to generate electricity using our own means, resources, and abilities," the minister stated before attendees at the Commission of Industry, Construction, and Energy, ahead of the Fourth Ordinary Period of Sessions of the National Assembly of People's Power (ANPP).
According to Cubadebate, quoting the minister, the primary objective is "to recuperate the National Electric System (SEN) as quickly as possible, achieving rapid growth and sustainability to meet the demands of the economy and the population, with a focus on energy transition and sovereignty, efficient and rational use of energy." The proposal focuses on restoring 850 MW of available distributed generation, along with generation in thermoelectric plants that consume national fuel, to reach an average availability of 1,400 MW. However, based on the current data from the Electric Union (UNE), this would still fall short.
The plan, as outlined by the minister, involves six working groups dedicated to finding financial, banking, and economic solutions, ensuring fuel supply, managing foreign relations within the sector, exploring renewable energy sources, improving efficiency, and addressing worker welfare. Yet, it seems more like an unattainable promise than a feasible possibility.
Contradictions and Promises
De la O Levy emphasized that Cuba mainly relies on "fuel in thermoelectric plants, crude oil from our wells, gas, and renewable energies, which include not only solar photovoltaics but also sugarcane biomass and wind energy, in addition to energy efficiency." This statement contradicts the current justifications for the sustained and frequent blackouts plaguing Cuban households, which are often attributed to fuel shortages.
Moreover, the plan aims to rehabilitate electrical networks, promote energy transition, ensure a stable fuel supply meeting the eight million-ton demand, and implement actions for rational energy use among consumers. It also seeks to reassure the public about the progressive improvement of the SEN and the importance of energy conservation.
Throughout the process, the minister highlighted plans to enhance attention to workers in the electric sector and to execute a program for the recovery of emergency generator groups. This effort underscores the need to bolster emergency generation in hospitals and water pumping stations, especially after recent hurricanes and earthquakes in eastern Cuba.
Regarding maintenance actions, he reported that unit 2 of the Felton thermoelectric plant, damaged by a fire, is undergoing repairs. The boiler has been dismantled, and the importation of metals and the construction of necessary structures and beams are underway.
Efforts are also being made to secure supplies necessary for the maintenance of units 3 and 4 at the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes plant.
Photovoltaic Systems and Controversial Measures
In terms of renewable energy, the minister announced that the country has 280 MW installed in photovoltaic solar parks, a significant portion funded by foreign investment. Alternatives for payment to foreign investors have been implemented using profits from exporting companies of the organization.
Looking ahead, a project to install an additional 120 MW in photovoltaic solar parks is set to be executed, thanks to a donation from China. The first 35 MW are expected to arrive by early 2025, with the remaining 85 MW to follow.
The Cuban government official noted that the Herradura 1 wind farm, previously halted due to lack of funding, is also in recovery. Payments have been made, and there is a timeline for execution, with a completion date set for 2025.
Additionally, he mentioned the acquisition of 30,000 domestic photovoltaic systems, with 10,500 solar battery systems already distributed across several provinces.
The minister also referenced the criticized Decree 110 of 2024, which, according to him, regulates the control and efficient use of energy carriers and renewable energy sources. However, the measure is viewed by the population as another blow to their already precarious quality of life.
Cuba's electrical crisis has worsened in recent years due to a lack of investment, fuel shortages, and the outdated infrastructure of the energy system. Blackouts, which can last up to 12 hours daily in some cases, have resulted in social unrest and challenges in key sectors like the economy and healthcare.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is the primary goal of Cuba's new energy plan?
The primary goal is to recover the National Electric System (SEN) quickly, ensuring accelerated growth and sustainability to meet the demands of the economy and the population.
How does the plan propose to improve energy generation?
The plan aims to restore 850 MW of distributed generation and increase thermoelectric generation that uses national fuel, targeting a total availability of 1,400 MW.
What renewable energy initiatives are included in the plan?
The plan includes installing an additional 120 MW in photovoltaic solar parks with Chinese donation support and recovering the Herradura 1 wind farm.