Maria de Fátima Batista, who lives in Terra Firme, a riverine community in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest, recently gained access to 24-hour electricity. The power comes from solar panels and batteries installed by local energy firm (re)energisa. This development is especially significant given that many other riverine communities living outside major urban centers lack access to reliable and clean electricity due to the costs of using diesel generators. In an effort to solve this issue, various Brazilian federal administrations have implemented programs such as Luz no Campo/Luz para Todos (Light for Everyone), which has benefited over 16 million people. More recently, the Bolsonaro administration launched Mais Luz para a Amazônia (More Light for the Amazon).
These programs are encouraged by public, private and third-sector initiatives including those put forward by NGOs such as WWF Brasil. These projects focus on reducing deforestation risks while providing training opportunities related to maintenance and creating new sources of income. The Energisa group offers microgrid programs with an app that serves as a fintech bank with credit services included. Despite these efforts there remain significant challenges concerning greenhouse gas emissions from supply chains along with food security issues when families depend on forest resources for their livelihoods.
Additionally, indigenous communities that live in protected areas are not included in these initiatives. Despite the challenges, solar energy is transforming isolated Amazon communities by providing clean and reliable electricity. Maria de Fátima Batista can now connect electrical appliances such as refrigerators or washing machines to her household grid. This new form of energy has improved her quality of life, allowing her to light her house during the night, watch television or listen to the radio and even charge mobile phones. The solar power system has been a major improvement for Maria de Fátima Batista who no longer needs to use candles or gas lamps like she used before she had access to electricity. Solar energy is also helping to reduce the environmental impacts of diesel generators.
Overall, solar energy is transforming isolated Amazon communities such as Terra Firme and providing 24-hour electricity to communities who were previously unable to access clean and reliable sources of power. Although there are still challenges that need to be addressed, these projects are helping to provide a better quality of life for those living in the remote Amazon communities. As more nations around the world focus on sustainability and renewable energy sources, solar power is expected to continue to grow in popularity and continue providing access to clean electricity for isolated communities.
Jonas Muthoni is an entrepreneur and renewable energy expert. He is the founder of MicroGridMedia.com, a website dedicated to bringing the latest news and information about solar energy and other renewable energy sources to the public. Jonas is passionate about promoting sustainable energy solutions and educating the public about the benefits of renewable energy. He is a regular speaker at industry events and conferences and is committed to driving the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.