The solar energy sector and the broader renewable energy industry are at a unique intersection of rapid technological progress and societal transformation. As one of the fastest growing energy technologies in the world, solar energy covers a wide range of disciplines, from research and production to engineering, finance, policy, communications and end-of-life management.
Because of this inherently diverse ecosystem, the sector naturally benefits from gender diversity and inclusion. Diverse perspectives strengthen problem solving, improve decision-making, and ultimately support innovation. From my perspective, the numbers already tell an encouraging story: solar is more inclusive than traditional energy sectors, with women representing around 40% of the workforce, according to IRENA.
Diversity is, past a matter of representation, a driver of performance. It expands the talent pool, accelerates growth and ensures the sector reflects the needs of the communities it serves. It therefore supports a more effective and fairer energy transition.
Diversity as a catalyst for innovation
In my experience, different perspectives bring a broader range of ideas, experiences, and approaches to problem solving. This is not theoretical, it is something I see in practice through the EU-funded projects we are part of, such as RETRIEVE, which focuses on PV recycling, and EMPOWER, which focuses on PV production.
These initiatives bring together stakeholders from different countries, sectors and professional backgrounds. The result is a collaborative environment where ideas are constantly challenged and refined through different lenses.
This diversity of ideas leads to solutions that are more comprehensive, future-oriented and adaptable to different contexts. It strengthens innovation, not only by generating new ideas, but also by ensuring that these ideas are resilient and applicable in the complexity of the real world.
A journey shaped by purpose and curiosity
My own journey to sustainable energy began during the final year of my master’s degree. My thesis focused on energy security, with a particular emphasis on solar energy. Since energy was slightly outside my primary area of study, I was driven by curiosity to deepen my understanding.
At the same time, an opportunity arose at RPIA and that moment marked the beginning of my professional path in the industry.
In addition to academic interest, my personal values played a determining role. Growing up in a city with a long history of fossil fuel use, I witnessed firsthand the impact of air pollution on health. That experience has shaped my belief that renewable energy, and especially solar energy, is part of the solution to a broader societal challenge.
So far, my experience in the industry has been very rewarding, both personally and professionally.
The role of mentors, allies and community
No journey is one you take alone, and I have been fortunate to be surrounded by people who nurtured my curiosity and encouraged me to grow.
I consider both a former colleague and the Executive Director, Andrei Manea, as mentors who helped me develop a strong sense of self and belief in my own abilities. My colleague Adriana Petre has also been a constant source of support as we navigate the fast-moving and dynamic solar industry together.
In addition to individual relationships, I see the sector itself as a continuous source of learning. Each person I have interacted with has brought unique perspectives and experiences that have contributed to my professional development. This collective knowledge exchange is one of the sector’s greatest strengths.
From absorption to retention: what companies need to do
Attracting diverse talent is just the first step, but retaining them requires intention and action.
From my perspective, companies need to embed inclusion into their daily practices, starting from the way job descriptions are written to the way they build partnerships with organizations that support diverse talent.
However, inclusion must go beyond hiring people. Retention depends on creating environments where people can grow. This includes providing clear career development pathways and meaningful support systems.
One of the most critical elements is flexibility. For many women and underrepresented groups, rigid work structures can be a barrier, especially when it comes to balancing caring responsibilities or other aspects of life.
Providing flexible working arrangements, whether through remote work or adaptable workloads at different stages of life, creates an environment where individuals feel understood and supported. This is not only beneficial for employees, but also for organizations that want to retain talent and build resilient teams.
Advice for the next generation
To every young woman entering the solar and renewable energy industry today, my message is simple: there is room for you under the sun, and your perspective is valuable.
Be kind to yourself and patient during your journey. There will be challenges, but it is essential to continue to believe in your abilities and the value of your work.
Surround yourself with people who support and inspire you, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Every step you take not only contributes to your own growth but also to a more sustainable world.
Be brave, be outspoken and remain open to learning because this industry needs your voice.
Irene is policy director of the Romanian Photovoltaic Industry Association (RPIA). With an extensive background in International Relations, Political Science and European Studies, her work focuses on EU regulation and the national energy transition. Irene is involved in policies and initiatives aimed at accelerating the efficient development of solar energy, BESS, and the associated value chain. By fostering collaborations and dialogues with key stakeholders, she advocates for policies that support the growth of solar energy and storage, and ensure that industry development is both economically viable and environmentally responsible. To this end, she coordinates on behalf of the association the policy activities for the Horizon Europe-funded projects of which RPIA is a part.
Interested in participating Irene Mihai and other female market leaders and experts at Women in Solar+ Europe? More information: www.wiseu.network
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