Havana, Cuba - In an electronics store in central Havana, Camilo Merejon carefully examines several photovoltaic systems displayed on the floor. Around him, customers move between solar panels, lithium batteries and solar-powered fans, comparing prices and asking sales staff for information.
The 61-year-old taxi driver studies the price tags closely. A three-kilowatt solar system costs $3,678, while a 10-kilowatt installation exceeds $10,000.
"To cover my basic needs, maybe three kilowatts would be enough" he says. "My Italian friends want to help me buy one, but it's extremely expensive."
Like millions of Cubans, Camilo has grown accustomed to living without electricity for long periods. On the day he visits the store, his neighbourhood of Regla has been without power for 26 hours.