Havana and Zerus partner for biomass plants

UK-based Havana Energy has signed a deal that will see it construct a number of biomass-fired power plants in Cuba.

Together with Cuba's state-owned Zerus S.A., a company linked to the Ministry of Sugar, Havana Energy is to develop a 30MW pilot plant at the Ciro Redondo Sugar Mill.

Following this initial development, the joint venture is planning to build a further four power plants.

The $250 million (€186.5 million) investment represents the first major renewable energy partnership between the UK and Cuba.

Currently 7% of all Cuba's energy comes from renewable sources. However according to Neslon Labrada, vice-minister of sugar, 'In Cuba it is possible via the sugar mills and bagasse-based power plants to generate up to 40% of the energy needs of the country today.'

'Cuba has an excellent record both in providing electricity for its people and promoting environmental sustainability,' says the chairman of Havana Energy Brian Wilson.