Rodrigo Almeida

Brazilian renewable energy advocate driving solar adoption in Amazon regions

Rodrigo Almeida, an engineer from Manaus, Brazil, pioneered off-grid solar solutions for Amazon communities through his 2021 startup Luz Amazonica. His modular solar systems use locally sourced materials and have electrified over 850 remote villages, reducing diesel generator dependency by 70% in target regions. The project was featured in National Geographic's 2023 climate special.

Almeida's innovation includes floating solar arrays designed for the Amazon's flooded ecosystems and partnerships with indigenous communities to train local technicians. His 2024 documentary 《Sunrise Over the Jungle》 documents the project's impact, winning a Sundance Audience Award.

Key achievements include securing $15 million in green bonds funding and developing a blockchain-based energy trading platform for microgrids. Almeida's work inspired similar initiatives in the Congo Basin and Mekong Delta regions, earning him the 2025 Clean Energy Leadership Award from the World Economic Forum.