Cuba has taken a significant step forward in its renewable energy ambitions with the inauguration of the Cabaiguán photovoltaic park, a 21.87 MW facility nestled in the central province of Sancti Spíritus. Completed in just over two months, this park is the first of 55 planned by the Cuban Ministry of Energy and Mines (Minem) to be operational by 2025, collectively contributing 1,200 MW to the national grid. This initiative is part of a broader vision to construct 92 solar parks by 2028, aiming to install a total capacity of 2,000 MW.
The rapid deployment of these parks is not merely a technical feat but a strategic move to address Cuba’s chronic energy crisis. As Minister of Energy and Mines Vicente de la O Levy emphasized, the plan seeks to “recover from its backwardness and achieve 24% penetration of these renewable technologies in Cuba by 2030.” The implications of this shift are profound, potentially allowing the country to cease importing 750,000 tons of fuel annually.
However, the path is not without challenges. Only four of the 55 parks slated for 2025 will include battery storage systems, a limitation that restricts their ability to provide power during non-solar hours. This constraint underscores a critical technical hurdle: the inability to significantly reduce blackouts or ensure grid stability outside of peak solar radiation hours. The reliance on real-time consumption means that while these parks can contribute substantially during the day, they fall short of addressing nighttime demand.
The financial and logistical aspects of this endeavor are equally complex. Financing is a mix of domestic investment and international collaboration, with Chinese companies playing a pivotal role in providing technology and financing. Each park costs approximately $16 million for imported equipment, with additional domestic investments in infrastructure and operations. The pace of construction and commissioning hinges on resource availability, logistics for importing components, and the condition of the national grid.
The recent performance of 26 new photovoltaic solar parks is a testament to their potential. On August 29, 2025, these parks generated 2,366 MWh, with a peak power delivery of 557 MW during midday. This output, while impressive, highlights the need for complementary solutions to extend the benefits of solar energy beyond daylight hours.
As Cuba navigates these challenges, the development of its solar infrastructure could serve as a model for other nations facing similar energy crises. The focus on renewable energy not only addresses immediate fuel shortages but also positions Cuba to achieve long-term energy independence. The success of this initiative will depend on overcoming technical limitations, securing stable financing, and ensuring the resilience of the national grid. If achieved, Cuba’s renewable energy plan could redefine the country’s energy landscape and inspire similar endeavors worldwide.