Cuba has welcomed the launch of the testing phase of what will be a 200MW BESS in Havana — aimed at giving the island nation an energy lifeline as it continues to face widespread rolling blackouts in the face of an effective oil blockade by the US.

The Cuban News Agency reported on July 2 that the state-owned Union Eléctrica (UNE) had successfully started testing the first 50MW BESS unit at the El Cotorro substation.

The project is part of a national BESS-solar programme that plans to install three other similar battery storage systems in the country with a total contribution of 200MW.

A total of more than 90 solar parks are reportedly under construction up to 2028, to complement the BESS programme and support Cuba’s national energy transition strategy.

China has already helped Cuba develop 49 new solar parks, according to the International Action Centre. The US-based advocacy group said solar power production had grown from 6% of total energy generation in 2025 to more than 20% now.

The battery chemistry involved in the first BESS — and supplier — was not disclosed, but UNE said specially-trained technicians operate the facility to guarantee technological independence and sustainability in managing the infrastructure.

UNE has said previously that the BESS investment will not automatically eliminate power outages, but battery storage can help ensure greater grid resilience, improve voltage and frequency quality.

Cuba currently relies on oil products for more than 80% of power generation, according to the International Energy Agency.

US president Donald Trump said in an executive order issued on January 29 that the policies, practices and actions of Cuba’s government constituted an unusual and extraordinary threat.

The US cut Cuba off from its main oil supplier, Venezuela, after capturing that country’s president. Then supplies from others including Mexico dried up after the US threatened them with additional tariffs.