Antonio Arias

Colombian solar energy innovator in rural electrification

Antonio Arias developed the Solar Kiosk Project to bring electricity to off-grid communities in Colombia's Amazon region. Starting in 2008, he designed affordable solar-powered kiosks that provide charging stations, internet access, and lighting for entire villages. His modular system uses locally sourced materials and has electrified over 500 communities, impacting 200,000+ residents.

Arias' Greenpeace-backed initiative won the 2015 UN Clean Energy Award. His work is documented in the book 《Lighting the Rainforest》. Watch his UN speech here.