This past Saturday, Cuba's Electric Union announced the opening of its first 21.8 megawatt Photovoltaic Solar Park located in Ciego de Ávila, specifically in the Cruce de la Trocha area. The ceremony was attended by Castro's Commander Ramiro Valdés Menéndez and the Minister of Energy and Mines, Vicente de la O Levy, marking another attempt by the regime to project an image of energy progress amidst one of the most severe electrical crises in decades.
This solar park is the latest in a series of similar projects recently unveiled by the government, following the March inauguration in Holguín and the one in Remedios, Villa Clara, which even had the participation of the ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel. However, the official enthusiasm starkly contrasts with the reality faced by millions of Cubans who remain in darkness, without refrigeration or ventilation, and without coherent explanations despite numerous promises.
The official narrative touts clean, renewable, and sustainable energy. Yet, increasingly skeptical Cubans express that they see "not even a slight improvement." This sentiment is echoed across social media, where the real utility of these investments is harshly questioned. Some sarcastically note that the solar panels appear to power only the government's rhetoric, not the people's needs.
An article published by this outlet on April 1 captured the widespread public sentiment following the official announcement of the "Alcalde Mayor" solar park in Cienfuegos, which has an average production capacity of up to 120 megawatts (MW) daily. Blackouts remain a daily reality in neighborhoods, and despair grows as even the energy propaganda fails to light a single bulb in homes.
Moreover, on Saturday, April 5, the Electric Union admitted that the country woke up in darkness once again and forecasted an 832 megawatt shortfall during peak nighttime hours due to a generation deficit. The official report estimates a meager available capacity of just 2,328 MW against a demand of 3,160 MW. And what about the solar parks? They barely cushion a system that repeatedly collapses without any solution in sight.
In theory, the Cruce de la Trocha park represents a commitment to renewable energy. In practice, it's another hollow symbol that neither dispels the heat nor the darkness, much less the indignation of a populace weary of blackouts, recycled promises, and political spectacles that illuminate nothing.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is the capacity of the new solar park in Ciego de Ávila?
The new solar park in Ciego de Ávila has a capacity of 21.8 megawatts.
How are Cubans responding to the solar park inaugurations?
Cubans have expressed skepticism and frustration, as many still experience blackouts and see no significant improvements despite the government's promises.
What was the predicted power shortfall for April 5?
The Electric Union predicted an 832 megawatt power shortfall during peak nighttime hours on April 5.