Who we are.
Edgar Oscar Ruiz
(Co-Founder and Chief Operations Officer)
Oscar brings a unique blend of operational expertise, environmental passion, and leadership to the forefront of our agrivoltaic initiatives in Puerto Rico. As Co-Founder and COO of Desarrollo Solar Grazing LLC, Oscar seeks to contribute with over five years of experience in sheep management on the island. His current roles include serving as President and Executive Director of Community Through Colors, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2016, where he works to advance solar and agricultural community development projects such as the volunteer-run nonprofit farm “La Finca de Hamberto” in Vieques. Currently, as the Director of Operations at Empowered By Light, Oscar represents Latin America in his efforts to advance community solar development practices. With 12 years of military service in the US Army, Oscar demonstrates a commitment to excellence in our sheep-led operations.
He holds a Bachelor's degree in Professional Aeronautics from Utah Valley University, a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and is fully bilingual in both English and Spanish.
Matthew Chlastawa
(Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer)
Matt brings a unique blend of industry insight, community-service orientation, and interdisciplinary leadership to our agrivoltaic expansion in Puerto Rico. As Co-Founder and CEO of Desarrollo Solar Grazing LLC, Matt seeks to contribute in project management, business development, and agrivoltaic stakeholder engagement efforts. His current role involves serving as Founder of Desarrollo Diaspora LLC, where he works to assist clients in project development initiatives. In his role, Matt leverages his professional working proficiency in Spanish to inform his community service efforts, building upon his experience as a 9th grade English teacher on the Texas-Mexico border. Matt holds a NABCEP PV Associates Certification, is OSHA Outreach Certified, and is a current member of Alianza de Justicia Energética de Puerto Rico, an energy justice initiative working group in Puerto Rico that brings together stakeholders, expert leaders, and non-governmental organizations to assist in the transformation of Puerto Rico's electrical system.
He holds a Bachelor's degree in Rhetorical Theory and Criticism from Bates College, a Masters in Business Administration with a focus on Global Strategy, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship from Fairfield University, and is a current member of the Puerto Rico National Men’s Lacrosse Team.
Sheep Dogs!
(Chief Good Boys and Girls)
As part of our model, Desarrollo Solar Grazing LLC will be expanding to include a small team of shepherd dogs to assist in the in execution of rotational grazing, sheep transportation, and employee wellness efforts.