Cuba and Japan have launched an ambitious collaboration project to promote renewable energy on the island, amidst one of the worst energy crises in its history, characterized by the severe deterioration of its electrical infrastructure and the ongoing blackouts affecting millions of families.
The project, supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), aims to improve electricity distribution and generation, where the lack of investments and maintenance has plunged the country into a critical scenario, with prolonged power outages affecting all sectors of society.
According to the agency Prensa Latina, the initiative also involves the participation of experts from West Japan Engineering Consultants, Inc. (WJEC), Tokyo Electric Power Services Co., Ltd (TEPSCO), and Yachiyo Engineering Co., Ltd (YEC).
In a recent meeting in Havana with specialists from the Electric Union (UNE), representatives from these Japanese entities and JICA outlined the objectives of the project, which will last for two years.
In this way, it is expected to improve the management and control of the electricity distribution and generation system, encouraging the integration of clean energy sources.
A step towards energy sustainability
In 2014, Cuba set a goal for 24% of its electricity to come from renewable sources by 2030, but progress has been limited. The combination of outdated infrastructure and frequent power outages has driven the search for international technical assistance.
Key training for the energy transition
The Japanese project also includes training the Cuban personnel responsible for operating the electrical grid, with the aim of achieving a more stable, secure, and reliable system, in line with the challenges posed by the massive integration of renewable energies.
This effort represents yet another challenge for the National Electric System (SEN) and an opportunity for Cuba to move towards a more sustainable and resilient energy model amidst a severe energy crisis.
Persistent instability
The project, supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), aims to improve electricity distribution and generation on the island, where the lack of investments and maintenance has plunged the country into a critical situation, with prolonged power outages affecting all sectors of society.
The lack of energy generation, combined with structural issues in the thermoelectric plants and fuel shortages, keeps the country in a state of high energy vulnerability.
This Wednesday, the Electric Company of Havana announced that it will begin to implement power outages during the early morning, as an emergency measure to address the ongoing generation deficit affecting the SEN.
Meanwhile, the authorities continue to resort to contingency measures that do not address the root of the problem and increasingly disrupt the daily routine of Cubans.
The government celebrated in March the connection of six solar parks, which have been synchronized to the national grid. However, blackouts persist, and the regime's own authorities admit that solar generation will not fully resolve the electricity deficit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba and Japan's Collaboration in Renewable Energies
What does the collaboration project between Cuba and Japan for renewable energy consist of?
The project between Cuba and Japan aims to promote renewable energy on the island amidst a severe energy crisis. The initiative is backed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and aims to improve electricity distribution and generation, integrating clean energy and training the Cuban personnel responsible for operating the electric grid.
What challenges does Cuba face in implementing renewable energy?
Cuba faces significant challenges such as a lack of investment, fuel shortages, and outdated infrastructure. Additionally, the reliance on foreign technologies and the current economic difficulties complicate the feasibility of large-scale projects for energy transition.
How does this project relate to other international initiatives in Cuba?
This project joins other international efforts, such as the donations of solar equipment from China and Italy. However, there is skepticism about the efficient use of donations and the lack of transparency in resource management, which has been a constant in the recent history of energy cooperation in Cuba.
Why is international technical assistance important for Cuba in the energy sector?
International technical assistance is crucial for modernizing Cuba's deteriorated energy system, facilitating the transition to renewable energy, and improving the stability of the electricity supply. This is vital for reducing blackouts and enhancing the quality of life for the Cuban population.
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