Oscar Romero Fernández

Ecuadorean inventor democratizing access to clean water through solar-powered filtration

Background & Motivation

Oscar Romero Fernández (b. 1975) grew up in rural Ecuador without piped water. After studying mechanical engineering in Quito, he witnessed 2005's 'Water Wars' protests against privatization. This inspired him to create AquaSolar in 2008 - a low-cost solar water purification system using locally sourced materials.

Technical Breakthrough

Romero's innovation combines solar pasteurization with UV filtration, producing 500 liters/day at $0.02 per liter. The system requires no electricity, ideal for off-grid communities. His 2012 prototype won the World Bank Water Prize, enabling pilot projects in 12 Latin American countries.

Global Impact

By 2023, AquaSolar installations in 35 countries have provided clean water to 2.5 million people. In Kenya's Kakuma refugee camp, Romero's systems reduced waterborne disease by 70%. His 'Water as a Human Right' manifesto influenced UN Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water).

Entrepreneurial Strategy

Romero employs a 'train-the-trainer' model, teaching communities to build and maintain systems. His 2017 partnership with UNICEF expanded access to 150,000+ rural households. The Innovators for Global Health (2020) documentary features his work.

Future Vision

Current projects include a mobile app monitoring water quality in real-time. Romero's 2022 book Pure Water, Pure Justice details his philosophy. He advises the World Health Organization's water equity initiatives and mentors engineers through his AquaSolar Academy.