Energy Mix Transition Continues in Holguin Schools

The education sector in Holguin province is advancing the transformation of its energy mix. Through the installation of photovoltaic systems and solar water heaters in schools and childcare centers. Utilizing both national programs and international donations.

Luis Felipe Batista Rodríguez, the territory’s General Director of Education, informed the CNA that facilities now backed by photovoltaic power for their essential operations. Include the José Martí Vocational Pre-University Institute and the four homes for children without parental care. This underscores the commitment to the well-being of vulnerable minors.

Given the sensitive nature of their work, renewable energy stations were also provided to special education schools. Specifically the Haydée Santamaría center (for students with autism spectrum disorder) and La Edad de Oro (specializing in sensory and intellectual disabilities). These installations facilitate the continuity of the educational process and support areas. Such as administrative management, food services, and methodological planning.

To improve study and working conditions in early childhood education, solar water heaters were installed in 20 of the province’s daycare centers. Several of these installations resulted from the “Strengthening Women’s Leadership and Participation in the Renewable Energy Sector in Cuba” (FORMER) project.

International initiatives contributing to the sector’s energy autonomy include the “Act Differently!” campaign. Driven by the World Food Programme with sponsorship from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). Also through this initiative, solar panels and batteries were delivered to schools in the municipality of Urbano Noris, he noted.

The official also pointed out that the 26 de Julio Polytechnic Center in Holguin is equipped with 25 solar panels generating over 10 kilowatts of power. A setup that benefits the institution’s operations while also contributing to the National Electric Power System (SEN).

Batista Rodríguez noted a persistent limitation: more than 140 schools equipped with solar panels—but lacking access to the National Electric System (SEN). They require inverters and batteries to activate these systems. Doing so would improve the quality of classroom instruction and the educational process, while easing the burden on staff and families.

Holguin has Cuba’s largest school network, comprising over 1,300 institutions. Many are located in rural or hard-to-reach communities. Including those in the five municipalities covered by the Turquino Plan.

With information from CNA

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