Use of renewable energies on family farms, their potential and challenges in the transition of the local energy matrix

Abstract

An evaluative study on the electric service in the rural environment was carried out, based on a bibliographic review on the subject and a process of analysis and understanding of the reality and problems related to the possibilities of using indigenous energy resources, from the application of a semi-structured interview and field visits to 10 farms. Based on the authors' experience and the previous value analysis, a methodology for the contextualization of strategies in the transition towards energy sovereignty of family farms is proposed. Different historical elements of the Cuban rural context regarding electrification and the use of renewable energy sources (RES) are presented, as well as a methodology for the participatory construction of energy sovereignty in family farms with technological and efficiency criteria that cover the technical requirements involved in the quality and management of the electric service (in housing and farm) and the optimal use of energy in the different productive uses, with emphasis on RES with appropriate technologies. The proposed methodology for energy sovereignty on a family farm can contribute to increase farm efficiency, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and improve the quality of life of rural families and their communities. Local public policies are required to facilitate the contextualization of appropriate technologies for the maximum use of FRE in family farming.