Lighting the way for territorial defense and climate justice
Across the Amazon, many remote frontline communities lack access to reliable energy, communication, or monitoring tools – severely limiting their ability to respond to threats, coordinate with allies, and make their voices heard. This isolation undermines their rights and efforts to safeguard the rainforest at a time when their leadership is vital to confronting the climate and biodiversity crises.
To address this need, Amazon Watch delivers solar energy and communications infrastructure to frontline Indigenous communities, thereby advancing the organization’s commitment to Indigenous forest stewards. To date, we have completed six projects across four countries while building internal capacity to scale this program. Power to the Protectors shows that renewable energy is not only a climate solution – it’s a tool for Indigenous self-determination and forest protection.
How it works
Each installation is designed to meet the specific needs of the community while prioritizing sustainability and local ownership.
- Community-led design: Projects are co-created with Indigenous partners to meet local needs.
- Solar + communications: Each system combines solar power with satellite internet and radio.
- Training + ownership: Community members are trained in system maintenance and repairs and retain full ownership of all hardware.
- Cost savings: Solar systems are more reliable and cost-effective than diesel generators over time.
Community impact
Access to clean energy and communications strengthens communities’ ability to defend their territories and thrive.
- Increased community access for charging mobile phones and other devices
- 24-hour internet access
- Strengthened territorial monitoring and communication with allies
- Faster response to medical emergencies
- Enhanced education through access to online resources
Recent highlight: Bringing solar power to remote Indigenous communities in Peru
In partnership with FECONAU – one of the oldest and most respected Indigenous federations in the Peruvian Amazon, representing over 30 communities of Shipibo-Konibo, Asháninka, Isconahua, and Aguajún peoples – Amazon Watch and Empowered by Light implemented a transformative solar energy project across the Ucayali region. This large-scale initiative brought clean, renewable electricity and satellite internet to 15 remote communities, directly benefiting more than 6,000 people who live deep within the Amazon rainforest.
The installation of solar power systems in these isolated villages provides more than just electricity. It equips Indigenous territorial guards with the tools they need to monitor and defend their lands from threats. With improved energy access, communities can power communications systems, enhance coordination between villages, and strengthen their presence in ancestral territories facing growing external pressure. The success of this initiative – generously funded by EKOenergy – underscores the importance of investing in Indigenous-led solutions to protect the Amazon and its peoples for generations to come.
Join us!
If you are a donor, ally, or foundation interested in learning more or partnering with us to support renewable energy projects, please contact Amanda Moran at [email protected],
