Opening Ceremony Speech for ADR2025 in Panama
Good morning, distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and fellow participants,
It is an honor to stand before you today at the 10th annual Action on Disaster Relief forum, a pivotal event that highlights the power of collaboration in addressing the challenges of our time. At Barrel, we are deeply committed to contributing to this vital platform, as we illuminate the path forward in tackling the interwoven crises facing South America and beyond.
As the region grapples with natural hazards, climate change, and socio-economic instability, one challenge often overlooked is energy poverty. Across South America, from the remote hills of Colombia to the urban expanse of Caracas, millions are without reliable electricity. This crisis impacts everything from the preservation of food to the functioning of healthcare infrastructure, hindering efforts toward disaster relief solutions and sustainable recovery.
In Venezuela, where blackouts have become a sad routine, and in Colombia, where displaced communities lack access to essential services, the absence of reliable energy deepens cycles of poverty and insecurity. In Haiti, persistent natural disasters and instability further amplify the struggles of those seeking basic necessities like clean water and vaccine storage.
This is where Barrel steps in, with a mission to address these critical needs through innovation and impact. Our portable solar systems, designed for the toughest environments, are more than just tools for generating energy—they are catalysts for socio-economic transformation. By integrating renewable energy into underserved communities, Barrel ensures that schools, emergency shelters, and healthcare centers have the power they need to serve those who rely on them.
Barrel’s participation in ADR2025 underscores our commitment to fostering resilient communities and driving adaptive strategies. Through our systems, we aim to alleviate energy poverty while promoting long-term sustainability. As Matteo Villa, our Chairman, states, “Energy isn’t just about powering devices; it’s about empowering people.”
At this forum, which brings together stakeholders from public-private partnerships, humanitarian logistics, and disaster response agencies, we are here to showcase how energy can bridge gaps in infrastructure, elevate health and safety standards, and inspire climate adaptation solutions.
Our work is a testament to the vision that energy can be a catalyst for dignity, growth, and resilience. In regions like rural Peru, where sporadic access to power is a reality, or in Caracas, where outages are common, our solutions serve as a beacon of hope.
We believe that platforms like ADR2025 are critical to advancing these efforts. By uniting diverse perspectives, we can innovate, scale solutions, and ensure that no community is left behind. Together, let us transform energy from a basic necessity into a cornerstone of human opportunity and sustainable development.
Thank you, and we look forward to building a brighter, more resilient future with all of you.