Women's Day: Solar Revolution Proves 'Infrastructure Is Not Just A Man's World'

In a world where the echoes of gender bias still exist, the solar energy sector emerges as a beacon of change, challenging the long-standing notion that infrastructure is a man's domain. As we navigate through the 21st century, it's becoming increasingly clear that the future of energy and infrastructure is sustainable and green but also inclusive and diverse. As a woman who ventured into the renewable energy sector over a decade ago, I've witnessed firsthand the evolving landscape of gender dynamics in what was traditionally perceived as a male-dominated field. 

When I embarked on my journey in renewable energy in 2010, the scepticism was palpable. People questioned my decision to leave a secure job at the Boston Consulting Group to venture into the nascent solar industry. The doubts only fuelled my determination. Today, the success of SolarArise, a company I founded that has developed over half a gigawatt of solar projects across India, stands as a testament to the potential of women in this sector. My journey in solar energy, has been a testament to the fact that infrastructure is not just a man's world.

Solar Revolution Proves 'Infrastructure Is Not Just A Man's World'

Infrastructure is more than just on-site roles and construction; it's a vast value chain akin to any large business. So why should it be considered a domain exclusive to men? The bias that infrastructure is a man's world needs to be broken by encouraging more women to enter the sector. The solar energy sector offers a plethora of opportunities for women to shine in both on-site and off-site roles. Women are increasingly making their mark in fields ranging from business development and data analytics to strategy, project design, and finance.

In my experience, women employees are strongly represented across various functions, bringing technical expertise in non-STEM and STEM fields. Personally, I have navigated through remote sites, module factories, boardrooms, and ministry meetings, sometimes being the only woman in the room, yet never feeling out of place. This indicates that the sector is ripe for female participation and leadership.

The solar sector's emphasis on innovation and sustainability resonates with the values and strengths that women bring to the table. The collaborative nature of renewable energy projects, the need for creative problem-solving, and the global push for environmental stewardship are all areas where women have excelled. By leveraging these strengths, the solar industry is not only breaking gender barriers but also ensuring a more holistic and effective approach to energy solutions.

To encourage more women to enter the infrastructure sector, leadership needs to be deliberate in their inclusion efforts. It's critical to keep challenging the traditional biases that reserve infrastructure roles for men. More women must enter the industry to dismantle these stereotypes. In my experience, being in board meetings or ministry discussions surrounded by men never deterred me. On the contrary, it reinforced my belief in the importance of female representation in decision-making spaces. As a leader, I made it a point not to accept only male CVs and ensured that some roles were reserved for women, even if it meant waiting longer to find the right candidate. This deliberate approach is crucial in breaking the gender bias and creating a more inclusive environment.

The solar industry's commitment to sustainability extends beyond environmental concerns; it encompasses social sustainability through gender inclusivity. By empowering women and providing them with equal opportunities, we are not only addressing gender disparities but also driving innovation and efficiency in the sector. The unique perspectives and skills that women bring to the table are invaluable in tackling the complex challenges of renewable energy and achieving a sustainable future.

In conclusion, the solar revolution is not just transforming how we power our world; it is redefining the landscape of the infrastructure sector. It's breaking the gender bias and proving that infrastructure is not just a man's world. By embracing diversity, the solar industry is paving the way for a future where infrastructure is an opportunity for all. As we continue to invest in renewable energy, let us also invest in the potential of women to drive progress and innovation in this vital sector. My journey in renewable energy is a testament to the potential of women in this field. The future of solar energy is bright, and women are at the forefront of this shining revolution.

Authored by Tanya Singhal, Founder, Mynzo Carbon & SolarArise. Views expressed by the authored are their own