Cuban regime sells solar panel systems for up to 5 million pesos amid blackouts

Cuba’s regime has begun selling solar power systems costing between 2.5 million and nearly 5 million pesos through the state-owned postal company Correos de Sancti Spíritus, as the island faces prolonged blackouts and a deep energy crisis.

Under the slogan “Correos Sancti Spíritus promotes clean energy!”, the state entity announced the availability of photovoltaic kits with different capacities — at prices far beyond the reach of most Cubans.

While the Cuban regime frequently promotes a transition to renewable energy, the country’s economic reality leaves most citizens unable to afford such technologies. Cuba’s minimum monthly wage is about 2,100 pesos (CUP), making the systems inaccessible to the vast majority of the population.

According to the published price list, the solar kits are available in several configurations, with prices ranging from 2.53 million to nearly 4.9 million Cuban pesos, depending on the system’s capacity.

5 kW solar kit: 2,530,000 CUP

6.5 kW solar kit: 2,750,000 CUP

10 kW solar kit: 3,850,000 CUP

12 kW solar kit: 4,895,000 CUP

Each package includes solar panels, batteries, an inverter, AC and DC protections, and full electrical wiring.

The state company says the systems provide electricity savings, backup power during outages, and environmental benefits.

However, the equipment can only be purchased in person at the commercial office of the Correos company in Sancti Spíritus, and officials warned that prices may change depending on market conditions.

Solar panels out of reach for most Cubans

The announcement has raised criticism due to the huge gap between the cost of the equipment and the average income in Cuba.

The measure comes as the island faces a severe structural energy crisis, marked by long daily blackouts, recurring failures at aging thermoelectric plants, and persistent fuel shortages.

While the Cuban government frequently promotes renewable energy and sustainability, the country’s economic conditions limit the population’s ability to access such technologies.

Blackouts continue across the island

Power outages remain widespread across Cuba.

For Tuesday, the state-owned Unión Eléctrica (UNE) forecast a deficit of 1,990 megawatts, meaning more than 60% of the country could be without electricity during peak hours.

On Monday, the electricity deficit reached 1,947 megawatts, amid breakdowns at several thermoelectric plants and additional units undergoing maintenance.