Russia's ambassador to Cuba, Viktor Koronelli, has reaffirmed his country's commitment to enhancing the island's beleaguered energy system. During a work visit to the province of Mayabeque, Koronelli discussed plans to upgrade three 100 MW generation units in Cuba, one of which is located at the Ernesto Guevara Thermoelectric Plant in Santa Cruz del Norte, as reported by the state-run Canal Caribe.
The discussions also included the potential construction of a new 200 MW block, which would be financed through Russian credit. "Our Ministry of Energy's leadership is also paying significant attention to this issue, as restoring Cuba's energy system is one of the strategic and foremost tasks," Koronelli stated.
Additionally, the Russian diplomat reviewed the Russian-Cuban project in Boca de Jaruco, where seven wells currently operate, producing over 1,600 tons of oil monthly through steam injection extraction technology.
Koronelli also highlighted collaboration in tourism, mentioning efforts to promote a corridor linking Havana, Mayabeque, and Matanzas. During this visit, he explored the seven tourist attractions at the La Presa Recreational Complex, managed by Palmares, and concluded his tour at the Memories Jibacoa hotel, operated by Blue Diamond Resorts.
The growing partnership between Russia and Cuba underlines Havana's increasing reliance on Moscow amid a severe energy crisis that continues to burden the population. Years of underinvestment, neglect, and corruption have ravaged Cuba's electrical infrastructure, leading to daily power outages that can last over 20 hours in some areas, severely impacting residents' quality of life.
Meanwhile, bilateral cooperation between Moscow and Havana has significantly intensified in recent years. Between January and April 2023, trade between the two nations surged ninefold, demonstrating a strategic alignment in critical areas like energy. In November 2023, a commercial and economic cooperation plan was signed to extend through 2030, aiming to modernize Cuba's energy infrastructure and ensure a more stable electricity supply.
Moreover, Russia has extended substantial financial aid to Cuba, including a new 65 million euro credit line in November 2024, intended for modernizing thermal power plants and jointly producing oil in initiatives such as the Boca de Jaruco project.
Key Questions About Russia's Involvement in Cuba's Energy Sector
What are the main components of the Russia-Cuba energy project?
The project involves upgrading three 100 MW generation units, constructing a new 200 MW block with Russian credit, and collaborating on oil production at Boca de Jaruco.
How has the trade between Russia and Cuba evolved recently?
Between January and April 2023, trade between Russia and Cuba increased ninefold, indicating a significant boost in their bilateral relations, especially in the energy sector.
What financial support has Russia provided to Cuba?
Russia has provided a new credit line of 65 million euros in November 2024, aimed at modernizing Cuba's thermal power plants and supporting joint oil production projects.