This week, Women in Solar+ Europe gives the voice to Ilse Cappelle, Head of Marketing & E-commerce at the Dutch Libra Energy. She explains how returning from maternity leave to a leadership role showed her the company’s strong support for career growth and work-life balance.
Every sector benefits from diversity, because each individual brings unique talents. When we truly appreciate what each person can contribute, both within organizations and in the broader green energy sector, we become stronger and better able to achieve our goals together. For me it’s not so much about gender alone. It’s about recognizing the value of every individual and creating an environment where people are valued for what they bring to the industry.
That’s also why different perspectives are so important to the innovation and success of the solar and renewable energy sector. Diversity becomes especially powerful when it is accompanied by clear and efficient decision-making. Different points of view can help us see opportunities, solve problems more creatively, and grow, both as individuals and as a company. As a leader, I always invite team members to share their ideas and utilize not only their own talents, but also each other’s talents, so that we can grow together. In energy, I believe we need both male and female energy to create success in the solar sector, and in my opinion this is something we are already doing well when organizations listen and act consciously.
One of the most important milestones in my career was joining the Libra Energy management team. From the moment I joined the company as an employee, I knew this was something I wanted to achieve. I kept that goal clear in mind and embraced every challenge that came my way. Three years ago, I joined the management team the day after returning from maternity leave. That moment meant a lot to me, not only because it marked an important professional step, but also because it reflected the support I received from the company throughout my journey. Libra Energy has never allowed any of my maternity leave to get in the way of my career, and that makes me incredibly proud to be part of the organization.
Experiences like these reinforce what good leadership and supportive workplaces can make possible. Talent should not be limited by outdated assumptions about dedication, ambition or capabilities. When people are given the confidence, encouragement and space to grow, they can achieve remarkable things. That’s good for individuals, but just as good for the company.
For young women entering the solar and renewable energy industries today, my advice is simple: be yourself. This market is constantly evolving, which means there is always more to learn and always more to make a meaningful contribution. Form and express your own opinions. Think critically. Actively seek feedback. And perhaps most importantly: find an employer who really recognizes your talents.
How do you know if you’ve found the right place? Follow your feeling. Very often all the wisdom you need is already within you. Trust that inner voice, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to take up space in an industry that needs your ideas, your perspective, and your energy.
Ilse Cappelle is a member of the management team at Libra Energy, based in the Netherlands, where she brings her expertise in marketing and e-commerce to the forefront of a rapidly evolving industry. With seven years of experience in the energy sector, she is still driven by its pace, purpose and constant evolution. She is passionate about building long-lasting relationships and believes that success is achieved through collaboration and shared goals. Ilse thrives in a dynamic environment where no day is the same and embraces both the challenges and opportunities that come with shaping a growing market. In addition to her professional career, Ilse is a proud mother of two young daughters, balancing leadership with family life and bringing a grounded, human perspective to her role.
Interested in participating Ilse Cappelle and other female market leaders and experts at Women in Solar+ Europe? More information: www.wiseu.network
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