This week, Women in Solar Europe (WiSEu) gives voice to Jalen de Jesus, Managing Director and Founder of Germany-based Co-Heller GmbH. She says the forward-thinking and forward-thinking nature of the solar industry means contributions are valued regardless of gender. “Being part of such an inclusive environment has allowed me to thrive and focus on innovation and growth. It reinforces that the solar industry is a place where talent and dedication really matter,” she says.
The renewable energy sector, including solar installation, is generally male-dominated. Women often face more challenges as they seek to establish themselves at the highest levels of the renewable energy industry. However, organizations such as Go-Heller GmbH recognize the importance of diversity. As a female founder, I prioritize raising awareness and addressing unconscious bias. Furthermore, flexible working policies for women that support work-life balance are essential.
One of the challenges I faced when setting up a solar company abroad was the language barrier. This motivated me to learn German. I attended training courses, participated in annual networking activities and attended conferences related to the PV industry. These efforts have been invaluable in keeping our team and our customers up to date with the latest technologies and innovations. I also sought guidance from female professionals, who played a crucial role in the company’s founding process.
There are plenty of opportunities in this fast-growing sector. Women can leverage initiatives, step out of their comfort zones and benefit from leadership development programs. On a technical level, continuous learning and certifications can really set you apart. As they say, “If there’s a will, there’s a way.”
With a background in Finance/MBA, the transition to the sustainable solar energy sector was easy for me. The real challenge lies in keeping up with new developments within the solar sector. My main function is to design, plan and calculate how much our customers can save by using solar energy.
I feel truly respected in the solar industry and have never felt marginalized. The progressive and progressive nature of the field ensures that contributions are valued regardless of gender. Being part of such an inclusive environment has allowed me to thrive and focus on innovation and growth. It reinforces that the solar industry is a place where talent and dedication really matter.
Nevertheless, it is not uncommon that the word “bossy” is often unfairly aimed at women in leadership roles. As a decision maker, I ensure that the opinion of every team member is taken into account. However, there have been instances where male colleagues have felt intimidated rather than recognizing the value of a female perspective.
Younger people are much more accepting of women in the solar sector, focus on skills over gender and are driven by passion for the environment. You don’t have to be a solar expert or electrician to break into the solar industry. What you need is Women’s Power, and understand the basics: panel types, their differences, inverters and real solar energy output.
Heavy lifting is a challenge for women in the solar industry (if we could have a 600W solar panel that weighs 5kg.) In 2018, on our first installation project in the Netherlands, I was able to transport 60 cell modules because they weigh only 40kg . 50 pounds. Lighter solar panels would help, but streamlining the grid connection and reducing administrative burden are the real game changers.
Solar energy is a new industry and its installation process is physically demanding. It is crucial to stay safe when working at heights. That is why everyone in our company follows the same training. Women should not be confined to the office. Having women on installation teams can change the dynamic.
An experienced female leader in the solar PV industry. Jalen de Jesus made a seamless transition from a solid background in finance to the sustainable solar industry. With extensive experience in project management, strategic planning, renewable project financing and solar installations, she has successfully delivered numerous projects, driving the adoption of clean energy and energy saving solutions in Germany and internationally, including the Netherlands, France, Spain, Italy, Great Britain -Britain, Czech Republic, Qatar and the Philippines. She is the founder and director of Germany-based installer GO-Heller, which provides supplies for solar energy systems and off-grid and on-grid installation services for roofs and solar farms. Jalen is also an active and involved member of several women’s associations and is deeply involved in providing PV business training in various regions to promote the growth of women in the industry.
Interested in participating Jalen DeJesus and other female leaders and industry experts at Women in Solar Europe? More information: www.wiseu.network
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