Cuba Turns to Solar Power as Energy Crisis Deepens Amid US Sanctions

Cuban citizens are increasingly installing solar panels on homes, businesses, and even vehicles to cope with widespread power outages caused by fuel shortages. The energy crisis has worsened as US sanctions limit oil shipments from traditional suppliers like Venezuela and Mexico.

HAVANA – As power outages plague Cuba, residents across the island nation are turning to solar energy solutions to keep their lights on and businesses running while Washington’s sanctions continue blocking crucial oil deliveries.

The combination of longstanding US economic restrictions and Cuba’s ongoing financial troubles has prevented the government from securing adequate fuel supplies for years. Recent threats of American tariffs have further reduced oil shipments from key allies Venezuela and Mexico, intensifying the energy shortage.

With support from Chinese funding and equipment contributions, Cuban authorities have added more than 1,000 megawatts of solar capacity over the past year and plan to expand that figure twofold in coming years. However, many citizens aren’t waiting for government solutions.

Havana resident Roberto Sarriga explained his decision to invest in solar technology: “Given the frequent outages, which pretty much stop you from doing anything, a friend offered to help me invest in panels and set everything up.”

Sarriga noted that his solar setup allows him to maintain internet access, keep his phone charged for communication, and operate a television for his elderly mother’s entertainment. “The idea was to at least have the basics covered,” he added.

While the dollar-priced imported panels remain financially out of reach for most Cubans, they’ve become increasingly popular among private entrepreneurs and those receiving financial support from overseas family members.

To boost renewable energy adoption, Cuban officials announced Thursday evening new tax incentives that eliminate personal taxes for up to eight years for business owners pursuing clean energy projects.

Solar installation specialist Raydel Cano, who services residential and commercial properties throughout Havana, reports growing customer interest as fuel becomes scarcer. Recent weeks have left owners of gas and diesel generators without viable alternatives.

“Private businesses see themselves obligated to install panels,” Cano observed, explaining that renewable energy has become the primary option as the electrical grid continues deteriorating.

Despite higher initial investment costs, Havana cafe manager Dariem Soto-Navarro considers solar the superior choice given diesel’s increasing unavailability. “In addition to being clean, green energy, it optimises operating costs,” he stated. “It is without a doubt one of the best solutions for entrepreneurs and private businesses.”

Even transportation workers are adapting to the energy challenge. Tricycle-taxi operator Alejandro Arritola installed rooftop solar panels to extend his vehicle’s range when gasoline runs out.

“It extends my range and I don’t have to use any gasoline,” Arritola explained, emphasizing how his family maintains mobility despite widespread shortages. “If there’s no public transportation, it doesn’t matter.”

The Trump administration maintains that its restrictive policies create pressure for political reform in Cuba. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated Wednesday that Cuba should consider making “very dramatic changes very soon” in its own interests.

United Nations officials have cautioned that failing to address Cuba’s energy requirements could trigger a humanitarian emergency. The island already faces severe shortages of food, fuel, and medical supplies, prompting authorities to implement rationing programs protecting essential services.

According to recent reports from Izvestia newspaper, Russia – among Cuba’s few remaining oil suppliers – is preparing future crude shipments, though no specific timeline was provided.