Solar power brings hope to Rio’s favelas

Rio de Janeiro, famous for its sunshine, is now seeing that same light spark a clean energy transformation in its favelas. In Babilônia, local leader Dinei founded Brazil’s first solar cooperative, giving residents affordable access to renewable power. Since 2015, solar panels on rooftops have been feeding energy into the grid, helping families lower their electricity bills while creating jobs in installation and maintenance. For communities that often face blackouts and high energy costs, solar power isn’t just about sustainability—it’s about fairness and opportunity.

Green roofs and waste solutions in Maré

Beyond Babilônia, innovation continues in the Maré Comunidade. The Ecoclima project, led by Rian de Queiroz, is tackling urban heat with affordable, lightweight green roofs made from recycled materials. These roofs not only cool homes but also allow families to grow food and tea. In early trials, they lowered indoor temperatures by up to 1.5°C, a major relief in sweltering conditions. The project also highlights deeper urban issues, from waste management to flooding. With garbage collection often absent, residents face clogged drains and polluted air. Ecoclima’s initiatives show how climate solutions can improve daily life while addressing broader health and environmental challenges.

Social justice through climate action

At the heart of these projects lies a powerful idea: climate adaptation is social justice. Nonprofit Revolusolarsupports solar initiatives, while local technicians and volunteers push for cleaner water through experimental wastewater treatment systems. With less than 5% of Rio’s favela wastewater treated, small-scale prototypes aim to draw government attention to neglected infrastructure. Although funding often comes from unexpected sources like oil and gas company Petrobras, community leaders stress that climate change cannot be separated from issues like education, healthcare, and human rights. For Rio’s favelas, these grassroots solutions offer hope—proof that renewable energy and environmental innovation can power not just homes, but brighter futures.

This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.