What if Cuba's oil-burning power plants were replaced?

Only a small number of protests have been reported, mostly confined to the banging of pots and pans. Even if Cuba’s ancient fleet of oil-burning generators can be kept running, the problems will get worse. But replacing the power plants would take decades and be painfully expensive.

How will Cuba's relationship with other countries impact the energy transition?

Cuba’s relationships with other countries will be key to realizing the energy transition. Since 2000, Venezuela has been Cuba’s primary source of imported oil. However, political and economic troubles in Venezuela caused oil exports to Cuba to fall by about half, resulting in Cuba increasingly seeking oil imports from Mexico and Russia.

How much oil does Cuba produce a day?

Cuba produces around 40,000 barrels of oil per day, but needs about 120,000 to cover its energy needs. For years discounted oil from its socialist ally Venezuela made up much of the shortfall. But Venezuela slashed its exports to Cuba this year, racked by an economic crisis and looking to capitalise on the lifting of American sanctions.

Why is Cuba importing oil from Mexico and Russia?

However, political and economic troubles in Venezuela caused oil exports to Cuba to fall by about half, resulting in Cuba increasingly seeking oil imports from Mexico and Russia. Cuba has worked with India, the Indian-based International Solar Alliance, and China to develop renewable energy projects.

Does Cuba rely on fossil fuels?

Cuba’s power system is currently heavily reliant on fossil fuels. In 2022, fossil fuels accounted for about 95% of electricity generation, and about 48% of the fossil fuels used were imported, putting the country at high risk of price shocks and supply shortages.

What happened in Havana after a blackout?

By the next afternoon, around 90% of the electricity supply had been restored in Havana, according to state-run media. But many places outside the capital remain without power. The blackout adds to the drudgery of life in Cuba’s socialist dictatorship. Food, scarce anyhow, has rotted in fridges.