Cuba is actively pursuing renewable energy solutions to combat the ongoing challenges of blackouts and fuel shortages affecting its national electrical system (SEN). Minister of Energy and Mines Vicente de la O Levy highlighted the country’s commitment to harnessing wind, solar, and biogas energy sources to transform its energy matrix. Rosell Guerra Campaña, director of Renewable Energy at the Ministry, emphasized the significant potential for clean energy in Cuba, noting that businesses have begun to reduce their reliance on SEN by adopting solar technologies and biogas systems.While progress has been made, particularly in sectors like agriculture and transportation, the overall use of renewable energy remains low, indicating ample opportunities for growth and increased energy independence in the future.Cuba is set to enhance its renewable energy landscape in 2025, with significant projects underway, including the completion of the Herradura 1 wind farm and the commissioning of a large energy storage facility. The government aims to add 1,200 MW to its existing capacity across 55 solar parks, driven by the implementation of Decree 110 of 2024, which mandates a five-year program focused on renewable energy and energy efficiency. This initiative requires new businesses to utilize renewable sources, particularly for high energy consumers, who must meet at least 50% of their peak consumption with clean energy.As the country prepares for the approval of the Energy Transfer Law, the emphasis on sustainable energy solutions is expected to bolster Cuba’s economic competitiveness, particularly in the tourism sector, which is a major energy consumer.Cuba is on the brink of a significant energy change, aiming to harness its abundant renewable resources to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. With a commitment to generating 24% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, the island nation is exploring diverse options such as solar, wind, and biomass energy.This strategic shift not only aligns with global climate goals but also presents a unique opportunity for international investors looking to tap into Cuba’s emerging renewable energy market. As policymakers navigate the challenges and opportunities within this sector, the potential for a cleaner, more resilient energy system in Cuba is becoming increasingly tangible, promising a brighter future for its energy landscape [2[2[2[2] [3[3[3[3].
Q&A with Renewable Energy Expert about Cuba’s Energy Transformation
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today to discuss Cuba’s renewable energy initiatives, particularly considering the ongoing challenges the country faces with blackouts and fuel shortages. Can you share your insights on the current state of Cuba’s energy system?
Expert: Absolutely,and thank you for having me.Cuba’s national electrical system (SEN) has faced meaningful disruptions due to its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. The government, recognizing this vulnerability, has committed to a transformative approach by integrating more renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and biogas into their energy matrix.
Time.news Editor: Minister Vicente de la O Levy has emphasized harnessing these renewable sources. What can you tell us about the potential these sources hold for Cuba?
Expert: Cuba has impressive renewable potential,especially with its geographical advantages for solar and wind energy. The Ministry’s director of Renewable Energy,Rosell Guerra Campaña,noted advancements in sectors such as agriculture and transportation,where businesses are reducing dependence on SEN by adopting solar technologies and biogas systems. Though, overall renewable energy use is still relatively low, indicating significant room for growth and energy independence.
Time.news Editor: It seems there are some exciting projects on the horizon. What are the key developments we can expect in 2025?
expert: Indeed! By 2025, Cuba plans to enhance its renewable landscape dramatically.Noteworthy projects include the completion of the herradura 1 wind farm and a large energy storage facility. The government aims to add 1,200 MW across 55 solar parks as part of Decree 110 of 2024, which mandates a five-year focus on renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives specifically targeting high energy consumers.
Time.news Editor: How will these developments impact the business surroundings in Cuba, especially considering the tourism sector’s energy consumption?
Expert: The push for renewable energy is expected to enhance Cuba’s economic competitiveness considerably. with tourism being one of the largest energy consumers, prioritizing sustainable energy solutions can help attract international investors. The implementation of the Energy Transfer Law, which encourages new businesses to utilize at least 50% clean energy for their peak consumption, should further foster a conducive environment for growth.
Time.news Editor: Looking towards the future, what broader implications do you see as Cuba aims to generate 24% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030?
Expert: This ambitious goal aligns well with global climate objectives and presents a unique opportunity for international investors who are interested in emerging markets.Cuba’s strategy not only promises a shift in energy production but also has the potential to develop a more reliable and resilient energy system. effectively tapping into its abundant renewable resources can lead to reduced dependency on imports, driving down energy costs in the long term.
Time.news Editor: As a final thought, what practical advice can you offer to stakeholders looking to navigate the renewable energy landscape in Cuba?
Expert: Stakeholders should stay informed about the evolving regulatory environment and emerging opportunities in the renewable energy sector. collaborations with local businesses and an understanding of the socio-economic context will be vital. Investing in renewable projects now can yield significant long-term benefits, given the Cuban government’s commitment to fostering a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for sharing these valuable insights. It’s clear that Cuba is on the verge of an exciting energy transformation that has the potential to reshape its future.
Expert: Thank you for having me! The upcoming years will be pivotal for cuba’s energy landscape, and I’m optimistic about the advancements we will witness.