The installation of photovoltaic systems in indigenous villages in Rio Grande do Sul is an innovation that marks the new phase of the “Air, Water and Land Project”, led by IECAM (Institute of Cultural and Environmental Studies). In the village of Teko'a Anhetenguá, in Porto Alegre (RS), one of the most memorable moments was the reaction of José Verá, a local leader, upon seeing the plant in operation.
“It was moving to see the joy and gratitude of José Verá, an indigenous leader and a wise man, seeing the system working, wanting to know and understand. They will no longer be without power, as they have already been without communication, internet or cell phones for two weeks,” reported Denise Wolf, president of IECAM and project coordinator.
According to her, the objective goes beyond the technical installation; it is also an educational action. The initiative seeks to awaken the Guarani's understanding of solar energy as a public policy issue, showing that this model can be expanded to each family, home or community, as long as there is political will and investment.
Isolated villages require adapted solutions
Not all villages are close to cities. In the village of Teko'a Yvyty Porã (Serra Bonita), in Maquiné, the project had to adapt to logistical challenges. The region, which covers three municipalities, is located at an altitude of 780 meters and extends over 2.300 hectares, and is only accessible by dirt roads, which makes transporting equipment difficult on rainy days.
To deal with this reality, a portable solar power station was installed, designed for low maintenance and high durability, ideal for remote locations. Despite the challenges, isolation also has a positive side: it strengthens the preservation of Guarani rituals and culture.
Indigenous village receives electricity through solar energy
Maintenance and training: future challenges
A systems maintenance varies according to the model installed. In the village of Teko'a Anhetenguá, the photovoltaic system requires periodic maintenance, such as the recent case of an alarm triggered by low energy capture in winter. The problem was solved by pruning trees to improve the entry of solar radiation.
According to Denise, the Guaranis themselves have not yet shown any interest in learning about the electrical aspects of the system, and maintenance is carried out by the project's technicians. However, technical training for indigenous people is seen as a future possibility, especially if the program is expanded.
Future vision
The goal of the project is ambitious to expand the model to other regions and indigenous ethnic groups in Brazil. So far, IECAM has worked in more than 20 villages and brought together representatives of the Guarani Nation of Brazil and villages from Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay in international meetings. Despite the recognition, the main challenge remains financing. “Petrobras has been essential with sponsorship. However, to expand the impact, more and more investment are needed,” said the coordinator.
Project team
The technical team – made up of agronomists, biologists, cartographers, environmental engineers and architects – has professionals experienced in working with indigenous communities, always working with the of Guarani agents in each village. “Our entire team has experience with indigenous culture, but when there is a need for one or another professional to us, there is an integration process, a preparation before entering the field”, reported the president of IECAM.
New technicians entering the project undergo a preparation process, which includes introductions to the chief and the community, as well as adherence to a code of ethics developed with the villages themselves. The activities follow a methodology of listening and collective construction, respecting the time and individual gifts of the indigenous people for activities such as nursery farming, composting and mapping.
The methodology is put into practice through meetings, workshops, trails, community outreach and gatherings. The Guaranis then divide into groups – leaders, youth and women – to discuss internally. Afterwards, everyone meets again to share demands and tly build solutions.
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