Enel Green Power, a leader in renewable energy, reaffirms its commitment to empowering women in the energy sector. The company has implemented a series of initiatives aimed at increasing women’s representation in its workforce, while addressing the challenges they face in this traditionally male-dominated field.
In this spirit, Alessandra Governanti, Head of Engineering & Construction Project Execution at Enel Green Power South Africa, shares her insights on the importance of inclusivity and mentorship for women pursuing careers in energy.
āOver the past few decades, there has been an increase in representation in the energy and construction sectors; however, the growth has been slow, particularly in leadership roles,ā says Governanti. āWomen still have to overcome stereotypes and manage work-life balance. This often creates conflicts that hinder career advancement and limit access to networks and mentorship opportunities in these traditionally male-dominated industries.ā
Enel recognises these obstacles and has committed to building a culture that prioritises equality. Governanti emphasises that Enelās initiatives are designed not only to increase representation, but also to ensure that women thrive in their careers.
āAt Enel, we actively implement comprehensive training programmes and mentoring opportunities focused specifically on the needs of women within our organisation,ā she explains. āBy equipping them with the resources to grow professionally, we can expand their contributions and enhance our industry’s diversity.ā
With operations in various countries and specialisations in diverse renewable energy technologies such as geothermal, hydroelectric, solar and wind power, Enel Green Power is uniquely positioned to create an inclusive work environment that values diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences.
Governanti adds, āDiversity is not just a compliance issue; itās a vital component of innovation. Our commitment to an inclusive workforce is essential for enabling forward-thinking solutions in renewable energy.ā
To further support women along their professional journeys, the Company organises initiatives aimed at encouraging connection and collaboration among its employees. Governanti says, āNetworking is key. We encourage women to build professional relationships and seek out mentors who can provide guidance and open doors. By nurturing these connections, women can steer their careers more effectively and find support within their field.ā
Reflecting on her own career journey in environmental engineering, she says, āFrom a young age, I was drawn to sustainability, which ultimately led me to pursue a career in the renewable energy sector. My experiences, from working as an environmental auditor to my current role at Enel, have shown me the importance of mentorship and resilience. I urge young women to believe in themselves, ignore stereotypes, and focus on honing their skills. Constructive feedback from colleagues can provide invaluable insights for personal growth.ā
In her advisory role, Governanti emphasises the need for women to collaborate. āSuccess is rarely achieved in isolation,ā she says. āIt requires teamwork and an openness to diverse perspectives. Creating a culture of respect and equality is crucial, as it not only leads to better performance but also enables a healthy work-life balance for everyone.ā
She also acknowledges the significant changes needed in policies to support women’s advancement in the energy sector. Evaluating current policies is essential for companies to understand their effectiveness in promoting women. This analysis helps identify strengths and weaknesses and develop new strategies to tackle ongoing challenges.
Governantiās colleagues have also expressed their appreciation for her authenticity and passion for the renewable energy and construction industries. Her enthusiasm has inspired other women to become excited about these fields, especially after witnessing the skill and dedication with which she has managing the construction of the expansive Impofu Wind Farm projects in Enel Green Power South Africa. Governanti has demonstrated how engaging leadership can transform perceptions about the industry and make it truly exhilarating for others.
Governanti reflects on her personal journey, noting how pivotal her experiences have been in shaping her career. āIāve been fortunate to combine my passion for sustainability with my professional endeavours,ā she adds. āI hope to inspire young women to follow their dreams, confidently embrace challenges, and positively impact the renewable energy sector.ā
Enel Green Power remains committed to supporting women’s empowerment within its organisation and the broader energy industry. By endorsing initiatives that promote equality, the company is not only providing opportunities for women, but is also positioning itself as a leader in sustainable practices and innovative solutions in the renewable energy sector.
Image credit: Freepik
