Indigenous Communities in Mexico Shift from Gas Ovens to Solar-Powered Stoves
The state of Oaxaca in Mexico is known for its rich and diverse culinary heritage, which has become a point of national pride. Unfortunately, it is also one of the least affluent states in the nation, making initiatives that lower their expenses and improve resource accessibility incredibly valuable. In an innovative project, over 500 Indigenous women from 50 communities have begun using solar stoves, earning them the designation of Cocineras Solares or “Solar Cooks.”
Led by environmental advocate Lorena Harp, the Cocineras Solares program encourages cooks to exchange their traditional wood or gas stoves for devices made with reflective panels that capture solar energy. While the design appears straightforward, it enables women to employ a multitude of cooking methods that define their culinary practices, ranging from simmering and baking to reheating meals and preparing dishes that need prolonged heating.
This approach also benefits the health and wellness of the cooks. They no longer have to endure hours inhaling smoke from the stove, nor do they need to vigilantly watch over their pots to prevent fire hazards, as there are no flames involved in the cooking process. Additionally, they are no longer dependent on firewood—a diminishing resource following a fire that devastated the nearby forest last year.
The cost of each solar stove ranges from 800 to 1,200 Mexican pesos (approximately $44-$66). Furthermore, there is no requirement for additional supplies, making it a one-time investment in an area characterized by dry, sunny weather for most of the year, particularly during the summer months.
The Cocineras Solares team has reported that the women have embraced the solar stoves in their homes, gardens, and rooftops, where they can receive several hours of direct sunlight daily. In the meantime, they continue to present this technology to communities and conduct demonstrations on the use of these devices through communal workshops and home visits.
To keep informed, you can follow Cocineras Solares on Instagram.
In an innovative project, over 500 women in Oaxaca, Mexico, have begun utilizing solar stoves, earning them the title of Cocineras Solares or “Solar Cooks.”
Sources: Oaxaca’s ‘solar cooks’ harness sunshine for sustainable meals | REUTERS; Cocinar sin gas ni leña: así trabajan las “cocineras solares” en Oaxaca; Los 10 estados con más pobres en México
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