Solar-powered Refrigeration
March 2026 - Rural Community Store Goes Solar
Joaquin Torrez & Zeneida Juarez live in the heart of Matagalpa, Nicaragua in a small off-grid community called Totumblita. The 180 residents make their living raising livestock and growing crops. Other residents find work out of town to support their families. Joaquín is a community leader dedicated to improving the conditions of his town. He was one of the first residents to recognize the pressing need for solar energy in 2014 and he has advocated for solar energy for his town for years. When the town school received solar in 2014, he maintained the batteries and safeguarded the solar system where he became known as the Keeper of the Keys.
Joaquin and Zeneida raised five children together. A devoted homemaker, Zeneida has long cared for her family, finding joy in cooking and creating a home where everyone feels safe and supported. She is now running their family business, a home-based community store offering basic food items and supplies to residents. Solar allows the family to save money and power a refrigerator so she can expand her inventory to include meat and dairy, making essential refrigerated goods available locally to the community.
An Inspirational Leader
Joaquin’s vision is to bring solar to each home in Totumblita. His commitment to bringing solar to his town is inspiring. Although 10+ years has passed since the school received solar, the town is still not connected to the national electric grid and still lacks potable water. The only road to the town is in poor condition making it impassable by vehicle during the rainy season. For lighting, residents rely on dangerous and expensive makeshift solutions like kerosene lamps, which can cause fires and long-term health problems due to the toxic fumes they off gas.
Asplund Earth Alliance installed a battery-based solar system at Joaquin and Zeneida's store in 2026, so they have reliable electricity and can power a refrigerator which benefits the town. Their store is the first of its kind in Totumblita, and it is a game-changer that saves neighbors time from having to travel long distances for essential supplies. Thanks to the many individuals and GRID Alternatives for supporting this project.
