This week, women in Solar Europe (Wisu) give voice to María del Puy Ayerra, head of business development Iberia in Spain’s Zelestra. She experienced isolated experiences that reflect subtle gender proposal-in particular the assumption that women in leadership must adopt a “tough” character to survive in a men-dominated environment. “These stereotypes can be restrictive and discouraging, especially for women who lead with empathy, cooperation and strength of vision,” she says.
The industry of renewable energy – tension solar energy, energy storage, EV -charging and grid infrastructure – is fed by constant innovation. From the very beginning it is defined by a rapid evolution that pushes us to be agile, progressive and to be ready to adjust. To remain competitive in such a dynamic environment, companies need high -qualified, talented teams at every level, from leadership to operations.
That is why gender diversity and inclusion are not only ethical imperatives; They are business supplies. Over the years, the industry has worked on removing obstacles to access to top talent. We have seen a conscious attempt to identify and eliminate prejudices, including that related to gender. This growing consciousness has cleared the way for more inclusive and effective teams, better decision -making and ultimately stronger business results.
Diversity, fairness and inclusion (dei) are critical pillars for resilience in the renewable energy sector. When teams consist of individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives, they are more creative, more adaptable and better equipped to resolve complex challenges. This is especially important in an industry such as ours, where change is the only constant and where the transition to a more sustainable world depends on fat, innovative thinking.
Looking back on my career, I was lucky to work in an industry that has largely supported my professional growth. I am deeply grateful for the teams that I have been part of and the mentors that led me along the way.
That said, I also encountered isolated experiences that reflect subtle gender proposals-in particular the assumption that women in leadership must adopt a “tough” character to survive in a men’s dominated environment. These stereotypes can be restrictive and discouraging, especially for women who lead with empathy, cooperation and strength.
What helped me to rise above those barriers was a combination of hard work, dedication and self -confidence. Insight into the impact of my work – on my team, my company and the wider industry – was crucial. It taught me to manage expectations, to continuously improve and to align my decisions to broader goals. This mentality not only strengthened my self -confidence, but was also able to penetrate skepticism and bias with clarity and goal.
In the past two decades I have witnessed a remarkable transformation in the way in which industry approaches gender inclusion, in particular in leadership and technical roles. Nowadays, companies are much more deliberate in searching for various profiles because they acknowledge that diversity adds tangible value to their results.
Women are now confronted with fewer restrictions on access to senior positions. We see more female leaders at the C-level, and their contributions have played an important role in the success of many companies in the sector. This growing visibility is not only inspiring, but also to reform the story about what leadership looks like in renewable energy.
For young women who enter this exciting and vital industry, I offer this advice: be prepared – both academic and emotional. Rest yourself with the knowledge and skills to meet the requirements of the field and to cultivate the resilience that is needed to navigate challenges and outdated thoughts.
Just as important, search for support within your organization. Find mentors and allies – opposite gender – who will encourage your growth and help you evolve to a confident, capable professional. The road may not always be easy, but with the right preparation and the right people around you, you will find your place – and your strength – within the renewable energy movement.
Maria del Puy is a senior expert in the field of renewable energy, aimed at business development for wind and solar energy. With extensive experience in business development and project management for renewable energy through all phases, strategic growth, mergers and acquisitions, building permit and ESG, from concept to construction and operation in Europe, Asia, North -America and South America. Maria also has entrepreneurial experience in the United States as co-founder of PMOP Consulting, a company for renewable energy companies that advises various companies in the industry. Maria is currently head of business development Iberia for Zelestra, an international IPP who is committed to supporting their customers in sustainable growth through the delivery of renewable energy supply.
Interested in becoming a member María del Puy Ayerra And other leaders and experts in the industry at women in Solar Europe? More information: www.wiseu.network
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