Havana, Aug 2 (ACN) Cuban Energy and Mines Minister Nicolas Arronte stressed the need to encourage the use of renewable energy sources through incentives, tariff and Tax benefits.
The ministry has approved unlimited imports of renewable energy-based technology and parts by either individuals or legal entities. Meanwhile the Finance and Prices Ministry also passed resolution lifting the tariffs for imports of equipment such as solar water heaters, pumps, biogas pumps, solar lighting systems and air conditioners.
The Cuban residential sector consumes over 60 percent of the total power generated in the country, so this sector can contribute to change the nation’s energy matrix, which is based on fossil fuels said the Minister as he referred to the recently adopted measures.
The country uses imported fuel to generate more than half of the power it produces; that’s why the reduction of such imports is crucial for the local economy, he said and went on to stress the need for energy independence and environment-friendly energy sources.
The Cuban government official said alternatives under consideration include the sale through e-commerce of solar panel systems and other products by specialized shops and by import companies.
The Energy and Mines Minister said the US economic, commercial and financial blockade of the island thwarts the country’s efforts to achieve energy efficiency and to set up renewable energy systems that guarantee the country’s power self-sufficiency.
