blueEnergy is a non-profit group that builds systems for clean energy and water on the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. The group started in October 2002 with a class project that won an award, created by co-founder Mathias Craig when he was a student at MIT. The main office is in San Francisco, and the work is done at their shop in Bluefields, managed by Guillaume Craig. Michèle Grégoire manages their office in Paris.

Overview

blueEnergy's early projects focused on putting up wind turbines in faraway villages, building eight small power stations in Rama and Miskito communities. Since 2009, blueEnergy has used solar panels for electricity and expanded its work to include water filtration and sanitation services, which are often more needed than energy in these areas. The organization drills wells, makes biosand filters, builds latrines, and teaches safe sanitation practices, with people in the communities often helping with the work. blueEnergy's Global Leadership Program offers training and real-world experience to future social entrepreneurs.

Mathias Craig and blueEnergy have received many awards, including the 2007 economic development Tech Award and being a 2007 CNN Heroes finalist. In 2008, he was chosen as an Ashoka fellow, and in 2012, he received a Fulbright NEXUS scholarship.

Although based in Bluefields, blueEnergy also works throughout the South Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region.