A Cuban expatriate, known on TikTok as EduSodi, has touched the hearts of many by sharing his months-long journey to install a solar panel for his mother back in Cuba. The motivation? He could no longer bear to see her endure the sweltering heat without electricity.
In a heartfelt video shared on TikTok this past Sunday, EduSodi describes the emotional process that led him to this decision. "I couldn't stand seeing my mother with a fan in her hand, suffering from the heat. My main goal for this trip was to solve this problem for her," he expressed.
Currently residing outside of Cuba, EduSodi emphasized that the solar panel installation was not a spur-of-the-moment expense. It was the culmination of an extended period of saving and diligent work.
"I worked tirelessly to afford a solar panel. It wasn't a quick endeavor; it took a lot of time, sweat, and sacrifice to gather all that money," he explained in the video.
The aim was clear: to ensure that his mother could enjoy some entertainment during the day, cook with electricity, and most importantly, escape the oppressive heat during the frequent blackouts that plague the island.
"In the end, I achieved it, thank God. More than feeling proud, I am relieved because, at least during the day, thanks to that panel, she'll have some entertainment, can cook with light, and most importantly, I won't see her suffer from the heat anymore," he affirmed.
EduSodi's gesture highlights a growing trend among the Cuban diaspora, who are sending energy solutions to their families in Cuba due to the regime's failure to provide consistent electricity.
A similar story is that of emigrant Bety Yorja, who installed solar panels and batteries in her mother's home back in June, encapsulating the priorities of many Cubans abroad: "I may not have much luxury because she comes first."
Private solar kits in Cuba range from $1,500 to $6,000, an unattainable sum for most Cubans, whose average salary is barely $13 per month at the informal exchange rate.
The Dire State of Cuba’s Power Crisis
The electrical crisis in Cuba in 2026 is the most severe in its recent history. Blackouts exceed 20 hours daily on average, leaving citizens with only one or two hours of electricity per day, according to energy monitoring reports.
The generation deficit ranges from 2,055 to 2,195 MW, with a real peak capacity of merely 935-995 MW against a demand exceeding 3,000 MW. The extreme summer heat exacerbates the situation, turning the lack of electricity into a public health issue, especially for the elderly.
Although Cuba has over 1,300 MW of installed solar energy, the lack of nationwide storage batteries prevents this capacity from being fully utilized. Consequently, individual solutions funded by the diaspora have become the only real guarantee of light for many families.
EduSodi concluded his message with a conviction that resonated with viewers: "I know all this sacrifice and expense have been worth it."
Understanding Cuba’s Energy Challenges
Why are solar panels a popular solution in Cuba?
Solar panels are popular in Cuba due to the unreliability of the national power grid, frequent blackouts, and the high cost of traditional energy sources. They provide a sustainable and independent energy solution for families.
What challenges do Cubans face in accessing solar energy?
The primary challenges include the high cost of solar kits, which are beyond the reach of the average Cuban salary, and the lack of national storage solutions to make full use of solar capacity.