Energetica India Magazine: september 2020

Dr. Uma Rajarathnam Vice President and Global Head of Applied Research and Collaboration, Enzen Traditionally, energy studies have been male-domi- nated, but I’ve seen a shift over the years. Today,in renewables in particular, there are a growing num- ber of women in leadership positions, with many set- ting up their own businesses. To my mind, the dispar- ity that existed has reduced to a large extent and there are opportunities available for qualified pro - fessionals irrespective of gender. In an exclusive in- teraction series with women influencers in the power sector, Manu Tayal , Associate Editor, Energetica In- dia, interacted with Dr. Uma Rajarathnam , Vice Pres- ident and Global Head of Applied Research and Collaboration, Enzen. Here’re some excerpts from that interaction: 32 energetica INDIA- September_2020 How has been your journey so far, being a woman, in the renewable energy industry? Dr. Uma Rajarathnam : Through my professional journey of 30 years, I’ve looked for ways to bring renewable energy to the forefront of the energy sector so we can create a better and brighter future for our planet. As part of my ex- ploration, I’ve looked at all sides, including the challenges and the environmental benefits associated with its adop - tion. In the 1980s during my education in Tamil Nadu, environ- mental science was introduced as a separate subject for the first time. It was a nascent field, with few colleges offer - ing the subject. Although it was considered very different from traditional branches of science, including the energy sector, I learned they were all interlinked. For example, to care for the environment one has to look into the role of energy and understand the social and be- havioural aspects related to it. Identifying this relationship helped me discover that renewable energy sources would be key in future. This led me to shift my focus from purely en- vironmental sciences to a broader spectrum. With the sup- port of my mentor Dr. Kishore, I chose to focus my doctoral degree at the Centre for Energy Studies on understanding the connection between energy and environment. How do you see the role of women in the renewable ener- gy sector with changing times? Dr. Uma Rajarathnam : Traditionally, energy studies have been male-dominated, but I’ve seen a shift over the years. Today, in renewables in particular, there are a growing number of women in leadership positions, with many set- ting up their own businesses. To my mind, the disparity that existed has reduced to a large extent and there are op- portunities available for qualified professionals irrespective of gender. This shift is partially fuelled by larger participation from women as well as recognition that we need more than just technical knowledge. It’s not enough know how the technology works, but rather, to adopt an integrated ap- proach that incorporates softer skills. For renewable ener- gy projects to be successful in India, a strong understand- ing of social, policy and behavioural aspects is required to secure stakeholder buy-in. Including design thinking in the mix can also accelerate how well we’re able to implement these projects. Essential to this are continued learning, formal and informal train- ing programmes and field exposure. I believe that unless you’ve been in the field and gained a direct understand - ing of stakeholder issues, your learning is incomplete. Combining these with a collaborative approach and a willingness to test, update and improve your ideas means you’re positioned for success. To my mind, once we achieve an optimal mix of technical know-how and these soft skills, the Indian renewable energy sector can become a formidable force in the global landscape. What is your message for other women on joining the re- newable energy industry in terms of scope/opportunities? What skill sets they require? Dr. Uma Rajarathnam : My message to women profession- als considering a career in renewable energy is that it’s a great time to be here. Whether you’re working at an or- ganisation or as an entrepreneur, opportunities for growth are tremendous. With decentralised distribution coming to the forefront, there is now increased focus on renewable energy in India. To bring these solutions to the market, we must look at the grassroots level and focus on the rural and semi-ur- ban market. While certain areas such as laying down the transmission lines and infrastructure may be more suitable for men on account of the physical and safety/security aspects of the job, women professionals have a large role