Cuba intelligent energy storage cabinet model

Can a centralized energy system work in Cuba?

Theoretically, a centralized system like the Cuban one would be very effective in matching sources and destinations of energy, allowing the balanced functioning of the economy and society. Nonetheless, the current energy situation in Cuba shows that this has not been the case.

Does Cuba have a comprehensive energy policy?

Cuba lacks a detailed strategic roadmap towards a comprehensive national energy policy that addresses these challenges. Since the government announced in 2014 a strategy to increase the share of renewable sources in electricity generation, that portion has hovered around 5% (4.8% in 2021).

Why is infrastructure so important in Cuba?

Infrastructure is the foundation of any economy, and its development must come first to prevent it from slowing down or, as in this case, paralyzing productive and social activity. Fuel shortages are the other side of the same coin. Cuba has to abandon its reliance on special agreements with like-minded countries to supply its energy.

Why is Cuba so dependent on imported energy?

With few traditional sources of its own, Cuba has always been dependent on imported energy. The replacement of the United States by the Soviet Union as the main trading partner and political ally was particularly visible in the change in supply of hydrocarbons.

Why does Cuba have a lack of electricity generation capacity?

Cuba has had several projects to increase electricity generation capacity that have not been executed successfully due to a number of factors such as lack of management skills, technical challenges, minimal financing, and the complex bureaucracy of the state business model.

Should Cuba recapitalize the sugarcane agro-industry?

The recapitalization of the sugarcane agro-industry deserves important attention within Cuba's future energy policy. This would bring considerable economic benefits: new capital investment, job creation, support for the balance of payments by reducing demand for imported oil, and create new sources of export revenue.