Cuba’s Leap Towards Renewable Energy: A Comprehensive Classroom Initiative

Cuba’s Leap Towards Renewable Energy: A Comprehensive Classroom Initiative

A New Chapter For Renewable Energy Education

Marking a significant milestone, the José Martí Pérez University of Sancti Spíritus (UNISS) in Cuba has inaugurated a unique, specialized classroom for Renewable Energy Sources. This marks the first of its kind in the country. With an impressive capacity for 40 students, the classroom is equipped with state-of-the-art photovoltaic technology. This initiative is a part of a broader project, Connecting Knowledge, which aims to connect smart boards with audio conferencing systems to foster collaboration on master’s programs across universities in the country.

GENUFRE Project: An Effort to Extend Renewable Energy Education

Under the National Group for Renewable Energy Sources and Energy Efficiency project (GENUFRE), similar equipment has been provided to eight other Cuban universities. Coordinated by the Central University of Las Villas, GENUFRE aims to equip more classrooms and expand renewable energy education throughout the country.

Aligning With the Country’s Aspirations

The initiative is in line with the country’s aspirations to alter its energy matrix. GENUFRE serves as a strategic alliance between the Ministry of Energy and Mines and the Ministry of Higher Education, focusing on the growth of renewable energy sources underpinned by science and technology.

Leading the Country’s Research on Biogas Technology

Sancti Spíritus University has been leading the country’s research on biogas technology for energy production since 2014. This responsibility was reaffirmed in 2020 with the establishment of the GENUFRE Group. Several other universities also contribute to the research and application of biogas technology.

Specialized Classroom: A Key Player in Renewable Energy Education

The specialized classroom will play a pivotal role in the Short Cycle Course on Renewable Energy Sources, which will commence in 2024 at UNISS. This course is unique in the country, marking a significant step towards a greener future.

The European Union Backed Renewable Energy Sources Project

The Renewable Energy Sources project, which supports local development, is a part of the Cuba Energy Policy Support Program. This program is funded by the European Union and coordinated by the Ministry of Energy and Mines. The project is implemented internationally by the United Nations Development Program and nationally by the UNISS Center for Energy and Industrial Process Studies.