The Cuban government has extended the import of power plants until March 2024 in an effort to alleviate the ongoing energy crisis in the country. With frequent blackouts leaving residents with only a few hours of power a day, the government has extended the non-commercial import of power plants with a power greater than 900 watts. This extension, published in the Official Gazette, applies to various types of shipments including air, sea, postal, and courier.
Although the purchase of power plants is not common in Cuba, platforms like Virtual Bazaar, in partnership with the State, are offering options to the population. Currently, the Bucatti 900 W gasoline power plant is available for purchase at a price of $391.50 USD.
Travelers to Cuba are also allowed to import up to two power plants as part of their accompanied luggage, with prices varying based on the power of the plant. Residents in Cuba importing for the first time in a year can pay in Cuban pesos, while others must pay in US dollars at the exchange rate of 24 pesos per dollar.
The government’s decision to extend the import of power plants until March 2024 is aimed at addressing the ongoing challenges in the national energy system. However, the measure primarily benefits those who can afford the cost of the products and have the means to bring them to Cuba. Additionally, the fuel shortage in the country poses another obstacle to utilizing power plants as a reliable source of energy.