In Cuba, charcoal and solar panels to cope with the energy crisis
Cubans are trying to adapt. Some remember that they already lived through the "special period", the very serious economic crisis that followed the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, then Cuba's main ally and economic support.
TL;DR
- Havana residents are preparing for worsening energy and fuel crises by buying charcoal, electric motorcycles, and solar panels.
- The price of charcoal is high, representing a significant portion of the average Cuban salary, making basic necessities like cooking a challenge.
- The Cuban economy has deteriorated significantly due to US sanctions and internal recovery issues, leading to severe shortages.
- Citizens are drawing parallels to the "special period" economic crisis following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
- The decline of Venezuela as a key oil supplier has further strained Cuba's energy situation.
- There has been a surge in demand for private solar panel installation businesses, indicating a desperate search for solutions.
- Churches and social institutions are also seeking alternative energy sources, like solar panels for community kitchens, through donations.
- Installers of solar systems are working long hours due to exponential demand.