Cuba has seen a rise in the installation of solar panels by homeowners and businesses, as reported on April 14. This shift comes after restrictions on oil shipments into the country by the United States, prompting many Cubans to seek alternative energy sources.
The increased reliance on solar energy is a response to frequent power outages and ongoing fuel shortages. Solar installer Radel Carno said that demand for solar panels has grown in Havana, with both homes and private businesses seeking independence from the national grid. “Demand has increased,” Carno said in a video interview. “Customer requests have been growing. And because of the increase in demand for electricity, due to power outages in Cuba and all that, and in private businesses, due to the power consumption plans they have to comply with, they have been forced to install panels so as to not exceed those plans and to save a little electricity. And in homes, individuals have been forced to install this type of equipment.”
Solar technology is also being adopted for transportation needs. Rickshaw driver Alejandro Aratola shared his experience adapting his vehicle: “In this country, it’s true that the electricity situation has always been difficult,” Aratola said. “I used to have an old rickshaw. I put two panels on it, but it wasn’t enough. I managed to trade it in for this hybrid one and put this panel on it about eight or 10 months ago. It helps me a lot.” He added that using solar panels extends his range without gasoline use: “When the power goes out, I put it in front of the house and charge it… people after seeing me are doing this too… They are inspired and are also trying to put panels on their houses and rickshaws.”
The move toward renewable energy solutions like solar is seen as an effort by Cubans not only for cost savings but also for greater resilience against infrastructure challenges caused by external restrictions.
Online commenters praised these efforts at innovation during difficult times; one YouTube user wrote: “Transforming the dynamics of power, in every sense of the word.” The trend suggests continued growth of clean energy adoption among Cuban households facing ongoing utility challenges.
