Solar PV System for Indigenous Forestry Stewardship
Sierra Madre, Mexico | Volunteer
Context: For generations, harvesting old-growth pine was one of the few accessible sources of income strategies available to Wixárika families in the Sierra Madre. This led to depleted mature forest stands without creating lasting community stability. In collaboration with the Wixárika Research Center, local leaders sought alternatives that could generate value from the forest while preserving mature trees and building skills in sustainable stewardship.
Task: Design and implement a raised photovoltaic system to power a solar kiln for wood processing. The tall pine canopy in the project area created shading challenges, requiring an elevated PV structure to achieve maximum sun exposure and consistent energy output. The system needed to support a shift from raw timber sales to value-added wood products created by community members.
Approach:
Energy & Infrastructure Design: Engineered a raised PV array sized to run a solar kiln year-round, accounting for canopy height, seasonal sun angles, and minimal ground disturbance. Structure was designed for local construction and maintenance.
Capacity Building: The high school leads hands-on learning in sustainable forestry, wood preparation, and design. Students work together to mill, dry, and craft chairs, doors, and other value-added products from smaller-diameter and salvaged timber.
Economic Transition: The solar kiln, powered by the PV system, enables the community to dry lumber on-site and produce finished goods. This redirects labor and revenue toward craftsmanship and forest stewardship instead of old-growth extraction, creating a path for long-term ecological and economic resilience.