Unlocking Women's Potential in Solar+
A new survey aims to understand what attracts women to the solar industry, what helps them stay, and what enables them to progress in their careers.
Women's participation in the solar industry is a crucial aspect of the energy transition. While the industry creates millions of jobs worldwide, the quality of these jobs and the opportunities available to women are often overlooked. A recent study by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) highlights the importance of considering job quality, security, career prospects, and fair distribution of opportunities. According to IRENA's research, women hold 32% of full-time renewable energy jobs, but they are concentrated in administrative positions. Their participation declines to 28% in STEM-related roles and only 19% in senior management and board positions. IRENA attributes these disparities to cultural and organisational norms, rather than a lack of skills or interest. To gain a deeper understanding of the experiences behind these numbers, the Women in Solar+ Europe (WiSEu) initiative is launching a short survey for women working in the solar industry. The survey aims to explore what attracted women to the sector and the factors influencing their decisions to stay and progress in their careers. The survey covers various aspects, including career opportunities, workplace flexibility, communication, inclusion, leadership, and professional development. It takes approximately five minutes to complete, and responses will be analysed collectively to provide original insights for the Solar Jobs Report 2026. WiSEu's goal is to build an evidence base that supports better-informed decisions across the industry. By understanding the experiences of women in the solar industry, we can identify areas where action is most needed and work towards creating a more inclusive workforce. The energy transition is not just about capacity, investment, and cost; it's also about people, human well-being, and the quality of the jobs being created. By focusing on the experiences of women in the solar industry, we can build a stronger picture of what women need to join, stay, and progress in our industries. If you are a woman working in the solar industry, we invite you to take the survey and contribute to this important initiative. If you are a man, please help us spread the word and encourage the women in your teams, organisations, and professional networks to participate. The survey closes on 12 September 2026, and every response will help us move beyond representation figures and build a clearer picture of what women need to succeed in the solar industry.
