In response to the frequent thefts of solar panels and other components from water pumping systems, authorities in Jobabo, Las Tunas, have introduced a chemical marking technique that remains undetectable to the naked eye but can be identified using ultraviolet light.
This strategy was implemented at a photovoltaic facility in the Birama settlement, as reported on Monday by journalist Yaidel Miguel Rodríguez Castro from Radio Cabaniguán.
Rodríguez explained that the equipment has been treated with a security marking gel that adheres to the skin when someone comes into contact with the protected surfaces.
"It's a chemical that sticks to the skin; it is invisible to the naked eye, but under ultraviolet light, the contact marks become visible," Rodríguez stated.
The aim, according to his report, is to help identify individuals who have handled the equipment in the event of further thefts.
Security Measures and Public Reactions
The journalist also noted that this type of marking is already in place on photovoltaic systems installed at state institutions and critical energy generation infrastructures, as well as transformer banks.
The measure has raised questions among some users. One remarked that the thieves might simply use gloves, to which Rodríguez countered, "That's the naivety, thinking gloves are a shield."
No further technical details were provided on how the product would respond under such conditions.
Community Concerns and Broader Implications
Another user sarcastically suggested that now "everyone's hands will need to be checked," while someone else proposed extending the same protection to individuals with solar panels installed in private homes.
There were also concerns about the water service in Jobabo itself. A user questioned, "When will they start pumping water to Jobabo?" in response to a post about equipment intended for pumping systems.
Despite the unusual nature of this measure and the potential for ridicule, the reality is that thefts of photovoltaic infrastructure have been occurring across various provinces in recent months.
In Las Tunas alone, the theft of solar panels and cables has disrupted water pumping stations and other critical installations, including those in the Amancio municipality.
Recently, in Santiago de Cuba, two solar panels were stolen from an ETECSA cabinet that provided energy backup to nearly 900 users. The province had seen similar incidents in May and June.
In Matanzas, three individuals were arrested for allegedly stealing 28 solar panels meant for water pumping in Los Arabos. Authorities reported recovering 21 of the stolen panels.
Concern over theft has also extended to domestic installations. With the rise in thefts, Cuban users have shared various methods for securing their panels, including metal structures and grilles designed to make removal difficult without significantly blocking sunlight.
FAQs on Solar Panel Theft Prevention in Cuba
What is the chemical marking method used in Las Tunas?
The chemical marking method involves applying a security gel that adheres to the skin upon contact with the protected surfaces. It is invisible to the naked eye but can be detected with ultraviolet light.
How are authorities planning to identify thieves using this method?
Authorities plan to use ultraviolet light to reveal the contact marks left by the security gel, allowing them to identify individuals who have handled the equipment.
Have there been any successful recoveries of stolen panels?
Yes, in Matanzas, authorities arrested three individuals and recovered 21 out of 28 stolen solar panels intended for water pumping.