An image depicting several solar panels affixed to the facade of a 12-story building in the Sandino district of Santa Clara has sparked a social media debate about survival strategies amid power outages and the government's accountability.
This photograph was posted on Friday by Leonel Alfaro Pérez in the Facebook group "Santa Clara en Instantáneas." For Pérez, the photo symbolizes "the ingenuity of Cubans."
Reactions were polarized, with some praising the residents' resourcefulness in finding alternatives, while others criticized the portrayal of this adaptation as a point of pride.
"We can't normalize misery," commented one user. Another questioned the celebration of so-called "Cuban ingenuity," arguing that installing solar panels to secure household electricity isn't an achievement, but rather a desperate response to basic needs that the government has failed to provide for decades.
"How long will we romanticize misery and call pure survival 'resistance'?" asked another user, highlighting that while some can afford panels, thousands of families remain without electricity or alternatives.
Many agreed with this sentiment, condemning the notion of pride in such adaptations. "There's nothing to be proud of or celebrate; it's disgraceful to live like this in the 21st century," expressed one commenter. Another noted that citizens are forced to seek ways to survive blackouts, hoping everyone could have access to similar solutions.
The conversation also touched on the cost of these systems. One commentator sarcastically remarked on the price of photovoltaic systems.
Available data suggests that an individual solar panel costs between $990 and $1,000, while a complete residential kit ranges from $2,750 to $5,200. This price equates to between 29 and 54 years of the full salary of a state worker earning an average monthly wage of 7,354 pesos, roughly eight dollars on the informal exchange market.
Economic disparities restrict access to these systems for those without remittances or foreign currency income, leaving other families vulnerable to power cuts with no means to install their own solutions.
In July, over 100 families in one of the 12-story buildings in the Sandino district endured more than 112 consecutive hours without electricity or water, as pumping relies on electric turbines. Residents had to carry water up the stairs and lost food supplies.
In September, the government proposed regulating private solar panel installations on rooftops and balconies, a suggestion met with criticism.
Activist Lara Crofs encapsulated the rejection of this proposal with the comment, "Cuba needs less control over those who are simply trying to survive."
Understanding the Solar Panel Debate in Cuba
Why are solar panels on buildings in Santa Clara controversial?
The controversy stems from differing views on whether installing solar panels should be seen as a symbol of Cuban ingenuity or as a sign of desperation due to government failure to provide reliable electricity.
How much do solar panel systems cost in Cuba?
The cost of a single solar panel ranges from $990 to $1,000, while a complete residential system can cost between $2,750 and $5,200. This is a significant financial burden given the average state worker's salary.
What are the challenges faced by residents of the Sandino district?
Residents have faced extended periods without electricity or water, as electric turbines are needed for water pumping. This has forced them to carry water manually and has led to food spoilage.