On February 28, 2025, the Alcalde Mayor Solar Park was officially inaugurated in Abreus, Cienfuegos, marking a significant milestone for Cuba's efforts to transition to renewable energy sources. The new facility adds 21.87 megawatts (MW) of power to the national electric system and is projected to save the country approximately 9,000 tons of fossil fuels annually.
The event was presided over by Ramiro Valdés Menéndez, the Commander of the Revolution and Vice Prime Minister, alongside Vicente de la O Levy, the Minister of Energy and Mines, and Armando Carranza Valladares, the First Secretary of the Party in Cienfuegos. Such high-profile attendance underlines the importance placed on renewable energy initiatives amid challenging economic conditions.
Carranza Valladares noted, "The construction of a facility saving 9,000 tons of fossil fuels annually would not have been possible without the integration of the provincial business system," emphasizing local collaboration and the strategic allocation of resources to achieve the project's successful completion.
The design and construction of the Alcalde Mayor Solar Park featured over 1,638 solar panels and various infrastructural installations, enabling it to seamlessly connect to Cuba's national grid. During the inauguration, Valdés Menéndez praised the efforts of the various construction firms and workers who played integral roles, recognizing the hard work of more than 500 individuals from 25 state and private entities involved with the project.
Valdés Menéndez highlighted the broader vision for Cuba's energy future, stating, "During the event, we acknowledged the outstanding groups and individuals who contributed to the construction work, highlighting the dedication of all involved.”
The Alcalde Mayor Solar Park is notable as the second of 92 planned solar facilities across the nation, part of Cuba's ambitious macro-program for transitioning to renewable energy sources over the next several years. This initiative aims to add 2,012 MW to the national grid by 2028, with plans already underway for two additional solar parks: La Yuca and Mal Tiempo. Each will have similar power outputs, contributing to the region's combined total capacity.
This project, alongside the previous smaller initiatives, reflects Cuba's commitment to diversifying its energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, particularly amid the persistent challenges it faces due to external economic pressures.
Looking forward, regional officials expressed optimism about the expected impact on the local economy and energy independence. The solar park is expected to markedly reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional energy sources and is aligned with global trends toward renewable energy adoption.
All eyes are now on the upcoming completion of additional facilities as part of this transition. With each new installation, Cuba moves closer to achieving its ambitious energy goals, which are increasingly important not only for the environment but also for the nation's overall energy security and economic resilience.
Events like the inauguration of the Alcalde Mayor Solar Park represent more than just infrastructural achievements; they signal Cuba's strategic steps toward sustainability and energy modernization, promising positive outcomes for both the environment and the economy.