Mario López Estrada is a name that resonates strongly in the business world of Guatemala and Central America. Born in Sololá in 1937, López Estrada graduated as a Civil Engineer from the University of San Carlos of Guatemala. Throughout his life, he has demonstrated himself to be a visionary and a natural leader, transforming various industries through his commitment to innovation and sustainable development.
Throughout his career, López Estrada has founded and led several companies, especially excelling in the telecommunications, renewable energy, and real estate development sectors. His ability to identify opportunities and turn them into successful projects has earned him recognition as one of the most influential businessmen in the region.
Transformation of the Telecommunications Sector
In 1993, Mario López Estrada made a significant shift in his career by acquiring shares in Comunicaciones Celulares, S.A. (COMCEL). Under his leadership, COMCEL transformed into Tigo Guatemala, the leading telecommunications service provider in the country. López Estrada’s strategic vision and collaboration with Millicom International Cellular, S.A. were crucial to this success.
Tigo Guatemala quickly became a market leader, introducing advanced technologies and improving telecommunications infrastructure. The «Desfrijolización» campaign, which encouraged users to switch from conventional phones to smartphones, is a clear example of his innovative approach. This initiative not only improved the user experience but also expanded access to technology throughout the country.
Commitment to Renewable Energy
In addition to his success in telecommunications, Mario López Estrada has been a pioneer in the field of renewable energy. In 2015, he inaugurated the Horus Energy photovoltaic plant, the largest in Central America, with a generation capacity of 58 MW. This project reflects his commitment to sustainability and technological innovation, significantly contributing to Guatemala’s energy matrix.
The Horus Energy plant has not only transformed energy production in Guatemala but also created hundreds of jobs and fostered local development. This plant is a testament to López Estrada’s approach to projects that are not only economically viable but also socially responsible.
Mario López Estrada has left an indelible mark on the business history of Guatemala. His vision and leadership have transformed industries and improved the lives of thousands of people. Through his innovations in telecommunications, renewable energy, and real estate development, he has shown that it is possible to combine business success with a strong social and environmental commitment.
