The metal containers that have arrived in Cuba in recent months to transport technology. For the construction of photovoltaic solar parks are beginning to find a different purpose than their initial one. What began as part of the logistics for the energy program promoted by the Ministry of Energy and Mines is now emerging. As a construction alternative to address one of the country’s most persistent problems: the housing shortage.
An extensive report by Cubadebate highlights that the initiative arose from the photovoltaic solar park construction program underway in the country. Numerous containers have arrived to transport the equipment and technology necessary for these projects. Once their logistical function is fulfilled, they become available.
Given this scenario, the publication notes, the General Directorate of Housing undertook the task of designing a construction program. That would allow for the reuse of shipping containers, not only as a way to take advantage of an existing resource. Also as an alternative to alleviate the housing deficit.
It adds that the project has a national scope and involves the participation of state-owned construction companies. As well as non-state management entities. To this end, a catalog of architectural solutions was developed that allows the metal structures. Also to be adapted to the country’s conditions and the resources available in each locality.
Cubadebate explains that the program also defines clear social priorities in the allocation of homes built from shipping containers. Among the main beneficiaries are people who have lost their homes as a result of extreme weather events. Families receiving state subsidies for housing construction, and young people reaching adulthood after having grown up in children’s homes without parental care.
Large families, particularly those with mothers, fathers, or guardians with three or more children, can also benefit.
According to the General Director of Housing, a national study was conducted that identified more than 3,000 potential sites. Taking into account urban planning regulations and the conditions of each area.
The houses are not built haphazardly. The program includes planning the necessary infrastructure to guarantee basic living conditions.
This means that, upon delivery, each house must have:
- access to drinking water
- connection to the electrical grid
- sewage systems
- sidewalks and road access
To date, 34 housing units have been completed and are now part of the housing stock in the areas where they were built.
Guantanamo province is leading the program’s progress. Followed by Granma and Holguin, while other provinces are developing projects that will be incorporated gradually.
Initial estimates indicate that the country could have around 5,000 shipping containers available for this type of construction solution.
With information from Cubadebate
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