International Women’s Day 2026: Powering a More Inclusive Solar Industry

Progress in renewable energy is powered by people. This International Women’s Day is a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the barriers that still remain in the renewable energy sector.

This year, we sat down with Jill, Sophie, and Maaike to discuss their personal journeys, the “Old Boys’ Club” of the energy industry, and the power of giving back to gain a stronger community.

Leading with authenticity

For Jill, Business Development Associate, one of the most powerful influences early in her career was the example set by other women.

Entering a male-dominated industry can feel intimidating, particularly when subtle signals suggest you must prove your credibility before being trusted.

“When you enter an industry that is largely male-dominated, it can be difficult not to feel intimidated. It becomes even harder when it is sometimes implied, through words or actions, that you are not trusted or qualified enough simply because you are a woman.”

Watching how experienced women navigated these environments made a lasting impression.

“One of the most meaningful things the women around me have given me is the example of being unapologetically themselves.”
Seeing women lead with confidence, integrity, and authenticity showed her what was possible.

“Seeing them reach where they are today, not by changing who they were, but by staying resilient, capable, and authentic, showed me what was possible. That example gave me confidence and continues to shape how I show up in both my life and career today.”

From Jill’s perspective in business development, progress in the industry grows from environments where people are encouraged to contribute and collaborate.

“I am grateful to be part of a company like OpenSolar, where inclusivity is actively practised and where women are encouraged to contribute, collaborate, and grow.”

When we give the courage to lead and perform with confidence, we gain a community who believe they can too.

Turning potential into opportunity

For Sophie, General Manager for Australia and New Zealand, building a thriving renewable energy industry means creating pathways that allow people to pursue opportunities with confidence.

She also pointed out that many professional spaces in the sector are still heavily male-dominated, which can sometimes feel intimidating or exclusionary.

“In the renewables sector, the old boys’ club still dominates unfortunately, making rooms full of men feel intimidating and exclusionary rather than welcoming.”

But progress comes from focusing on accessibility and opportunity.

“It’s about fostering inclusivity and accessibility, not mandating equality in every role.”

Renewable energy includes many different roles, and making those opportunities accessible requires practical support.

“That means breaking down biases, providing fair access to training and funding, and offering flexible schedules that fit real lives, so that we are turning potential roadblocks into pathways for everyone.”

Looking at the industry more broadly, Sophie believes real progress comes from genuine support systems that help people grow and succeed.

“The clean energy industry needs to prioritise genuine inclusivity over superficial metrics. We need authentic support: mentorship that truly empowers and investments in diverse talent that spark lasting innovation.”

When we give genuine support and our unfiltered stories of our experiences, we gain a community that cares deeper than surface perceptions.

Encouragement that opens doors

For Maaike, General Manager of New Markets, trust and encouragement have been defining moments throughout her career.

Working across multiple countries, including the Netherlands, DR Congo, Australia, and Belgium, often meant entering entirely new environments and building connections from scratch.

One early experience helped her develop the confidence to do just that.

“At a networking event, the Deputy Ambassador told me: ‘I’ll introduce you to three people. After that, you’re on your own. Meet at least 20 people tonight, remember their name, organisation and one interesting thing they told you, and report back to me.’”

What initially felt intimidating quickly became empowering.

“It taught me the value of building connections.”

Later, when moving to Australia, another mentor gave her an opportunity even though she had little experience in the local energy sector.

“She told me, ‘Knowledge you can learn; I’ll help you find the right resources. Enthusiasm and drive you can’t teach and you have plenty of that.’”

That encouragement reinforced the importance of curiosity and a growth mindset.

From a global perspective, Maaike highlights the importance of visibility and encouragement for the next generation entering the industry.

“Younger women choosing a field of study or career need to see women in roles that are often considered male-dominated so they can picture themselves there too.”
Her advice to women considering new opportunities is simple:

“Give it a go.”

When we give encouragement and opportunity, we gain confident people who are willing to step forward and grow the industry.

What we give shapes what we gain

Across these stories, one theme stands out clearly: the renewable energy transition grows stronger when people are supported to step forward and contribute.

Happy International Women’s Day!