Cuba Promises to Reduce Blackouts with Support from Russia and China


Miami. — In the midst of an energy crisis that keeps the population on edge with constant blackouts and a weakened electrical capacity, the Cuban government is betting on cooperation with Russia and China to support its ailing National Electroenergy System (SEN).

On March 19, Russian ambassador to Havana, Viktor Koronelli, visited the facilities of the Zarubezhneft oil company in Boca de Jaruco, Mayabeque, and the Ernesto Guevara thermoelectric plant, where he reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to modernizing three power-generating units of 100 megawatts (MW) each. He also announced the construction of a 200 MW unit funded by a Russian loan.

At the same time, state media reported that China has begun sending materials for the installation of 120 MW of solar energy, distributed across 22 photovoltaic parks in various provinces of the country. These projects are part of a long-term strategy to increase the share of renewable energy in Cuba’s energy matrix, with a target of reaching 24% by 2030.

An Energy Crisis Without Immediate Solutions
Cuba’s electrical crisis has worsened in recent months, with frequent blackouts and failures in the SEN. The most recent occurred on March 14, when the country suffered its fourth total blackout in six months. Despite having an installed capacity of over 5,000 MW, constant breakdowns and a lack of fuel have reduced the available power to less than half, causing daily deficits of more than 1,500 MW.

The Cuban government insists on its “energy transition,” but progress has been minimal. In 2014, renewable energy accounted for 5% of power generation; that figure has only increased by 3% over the past 11 years. By the end of this year, authorities hope to reach 8%, which would save more than 400,000 tons of fuel.

However, the lack of investment and dependence on external financing have hindered progress. Russia has provided a $60 million loan for fuel purchases and an additional $2 million for parts and components, as well as sending repair kits.

The Challenge of Renewable Energy
While Russia continues to support fossil fuel generation, China is leading efforts in clean energy. Currently, the construction of 92 solar parks using Chinese technology is planned. If completed by 2028, they are expected to contribute more than 2,000 MW to the SEN.

One of the main challenges in implementing these projects is energy storage. Currently, there are only two storage systems, in Havana and Cienfuegos, with a combined capacity of 43 MW, which limits the ability to use solar energy at night.

The Cuban government has introduced incentives such as an eight-year tax exemption for renewable energy investors and a mandate requiring large consumers to generate at least half of the energy they use. Additionally, a new energy transition law is being drafted and is expected to be approved in December.

The deterioration of Cuba’s electrical system reflects the broader economic crisis facing the country. A lack of investment, aging infrastructure, and a shortage of foreign currency to import fuel and spare parts have plunged the island into an energy crisis with no immediate solution in sight.

While the government focuses on medium- and long-term projects, Cubans continue to endure daily blackouts, with little hope that the situation will improve in the near future.

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