This Saturday (08) is celebrated the International Day of Woman, a date that symbolizes the fight for gender equality and is marked by the recognition of women's achievements in different sectors of society.
In the renewable energy sector, it could not be different, Brazil is among the three countries that most expand their solar capacity and occupies 6th place in the ranking of installed wind capacity, according to data from 2024. However, despite the advances, the sector faces gender challenges.
According to data from the IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency) and the ANEEL (National Electric Energy Agency), only 16% of the workforce in the energy sector is made up of women, while only 5,55% of them occupy leadership positions.
Despite this, the female presence is essential to drive innovation and sustainable development. Therefore, Canal Solar interviewed women who have stood out and taken on strategic roles in the energy sector, influencing policies, driving innovation and taking on management roles.
Meet great women in the energy sector:
Among the professionals recognized as 100 most influential women in the energy sector are:
Marina Meyer Falcao: lawyer, mother, president of the Energy Commission of the OAB/MG and Partner in the Energy Area at Manucci Advogados.
According to Marina, the energy sector has historically been dominated by men, but female participation has been growing in recent years.
The professional states that there are many challenges to be faced. “Women often face the need to prove their competence in a predominantly male environment. Credibility can be questioned until in-depth technical and strategic knowledge is demonstrated.”
Another point highlighted is the technical events and forums that often have a predominantly male participation, making it more difficult to build networks and mentoring for women.
“In addition, the energy sector demands intense dedication, travel and long working hours, which can create additional challenges for women who balance career and family,” she adds.
Despite the challenges, the sector has made progress with diversity and inclusion initiatives, especially in technical and leadership areas. The lawyer highlights the role of networks such as the 'Women in Energy' group and other associations that have been strengthening the female presence, promoting mentoring and opportunities.
For Marina, women seeking to enter or grow in the energy sector must build solid knowledge. “Mastering the technical and regulatory aspects is essential to stand out and gain credibility.”
“Seek mentoring and networking, as connecting with other professionals in the sector helps open doors and create opportunities. Be the protagonist of your journey, don’t expect automatic recognition. Take a stand, participate in discussions and make your voice heard,” he recommends.
According to the executive, the sector is undergoing transformations, a gateway to new opportunities for innovative and strategic leadership. “Encourage other women, representation grows when there is mutual and encouraging other women strengthens the entire sector.”
Motta Chair: founder and CEO of Donna Lamparina, UN Global Compact participant and mentor.
“Since 1997, when I began my journey in the electricity sector, I have faced challenges common to many women in a predominantly male environment. One of the main obstacles was the constant need to prove my competence in a market where, for a long time, decisions were made mainly by men,” she says.
Furthermore, Silla points out that the lack of female representation in leadership positions made the path even more lonely and creating connections and gaining space required resilience, technical knowledge and a strategic positioning to be heard and respected.
The professional also sees that female participation in the energy sector, especially in renewables, has grown significantly in recent years.
“This is due to a global movement for greater diversity and inclusion, in addition to the emergence of networks and initiatives that encourage women’s leadership, such as mentoring groups and female leadership programs,” she says.
“Despite the progress, there are still challenges to be overcome, especially in of pay equity and access to senior management positions. However, the energy transition has brought new opportunities, and I see more and more women leading projects, companies and strategic discussions about the future of energy,” she emphasizes.
Silla emphasizes that women in the sector should invest in technical and strategic knowledge, as expertise is an important differentiator. In addition, she emphasizes the importance of a strong network of s, participation in events, groups and mentoring that can open doors.
“Another essential point is to have the courage to take up positions and position yourself. Opportunities often exist, but you need to be prepared to seize them. And finally, whenever possible, reciprocate this growth by encouraging other women to enter and prosper in the sector – together, we can advance much further”, concludes the professional.
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