Global Energy Shifts: Cuba Turns to Solar Amid Crisis, Morocco Builds Renewable Hub

Cuba is accelerating a shift toward solar power as a deepening energy crisis, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and the loss of Venezuelan fuel, cripples its economy, according to a report from OilPrice.com. The country requires about 100,000 barrels of oil per day but fulfills only 40 percent of that demand domestically. Following a U.S. fuel blockade imposed in January and the halt of imports from Venezuela after a U.S. intervention there in February, Cuba has faced severe power outages and fuel shortages. In response, the government is encouraging private sector investment in energy diversification, offering greater tax exemptions for businesses importing solar panels. A significant policy shift occurred in March with a new law allowing private capital to merge with state companies for the first time, potentially opening historically state-controlled sectors to investment.

Separately, Morocco is emerging as a renewable energy superpower, rapidly developing its solar and wind capacity to reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports, OilPrice.com reported. Although coal still generates around 60 percent of its electricity, Morocco had an estimated 5.5 GW of operational renewable capacity by the end of 2025, representing 45.4 percent of its total installed capacity. The country aims for a 52 percent renewable share in its electricity mix by 2030. Morocco's high solar insolation rate of over 3,000 sunshine hours per year is driving growth, with solar technology imports rising about 46 percent in Q1 2026. Major projects are advancing, including awards to Saudi Arabia's ACWA Power for 400 MW solar projects with battery storage and a new 90 MW plant using Chinese Jinko Solar modules designed for desert conditions.

In European energy investment news, Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky sees potential to increase his stake in French oil major TotalEnergies, Rigzone reported. Kretinsky, whose current holding is less than 5 percent, stated, "Given that we currently own a stake of less than 5 percent, if we felt the need to further diversify, we could continue increasing our stake in Total."

These international developments underscore a global focus on energy security and diversification. For Bakken operators and service companies, the rapid scale-up of renewable projects in markets like Morocco demonstrates the competitive investment flowing into alternative energy, while Cuba's forced pivot highlights the geopolitical risks that can suddenly alter traditional fuel trade routes. Kretinsky's interest in a major integrated oil company reflects ongoing strategic positioning within the evolving energy landscape.