Boosting Renewable Energy A Priority In Cuba in 2013

HAVANA, Jan 2 (BERNAMA-NNN-PRENSA LATINA) -- Cuba plans to boost the use of sugarcane biomass, wind and sunlight to generate energy, all sources that guarantee more environmental protection, which are among the country's priorities for 2013.

In remarks to Prensa Latina at the end of a parliament session in late 2012, Minister of Energy and Mines, Alfredo Lopez, announced the implementation of several new programmes, including the construction of two plants to use sugarcane biomass in energy generation, one in Matanzas and the other in Ciego de Avila, in central Cuba.

Lopez also said work will start in several photovoltaic power stations in several regions, which are expected to contribute 10,000 kW, as well as in an aeolian park (wind farm) in Las Tunas province, in eastern Cuba, to contribute 51,000 kW.

According to Lopez, the decisions adopted respond to thorough feasibility studies leading to increased use of renewable energy, considered a healthy alternative to fossil fuels, thus protecting the environment, as well as benefiting remote communities in mountainous areas, where wind and sun energy can be used.