This International Women's Day, IHA looks to shine a light on the inspiring women across the hydropower sector that work to keep the lights on.

Alka Yadav, Director at Green Energy Transition Research Institute (GETRI), Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam (GUVNL) tells her story in her own words:

Bridging the Gap: Women, Energy & Transformation

"In the classroom of equality, gender should never be absent."

Growing up, I was fascinated by how energy transformed lives - the glow of a single bulb in a dark room felt like magic. But as I stepped into the sector, I realised that this "magic" was built on science, infrastructure and - most importantly - people. Yet, half of the population was missing from the workforce shaping this transformation.

India’s energy sector has long been male-dominated. Women make up only 11% of India’s renewable energy workforce, with just 1% in operations and maintenance. This isn’t just a statistic - it’s a gap that must be bridged. The energy transition must be inclusive, diverse and driven by talent - regardless of gender.

Education: The Catalyst for Change

"When you empower a woman through education, you don’t just change her life - you change the future."

Early in my career at National Power Training Institute (NPTI), I often found myself in training rooms where women were outnumbered thirty to one. Rather than feeling discouraged, I saw it as a call to action. Today, that gap is closing. I now find myself in spaces where women are not just present but leading—driving discussions, shaping policies, and spearheading energy transition projects. This transformation reaffirms a simple truth: education is the foundation of empowerment.

At the Green Energy Transition Research Institute (GETRI), I lead an institution dedicated to preparing the workforce for the clean energy future. Training and capacity building are not just about skills; they are about breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and ensuring inclusivity in an evolving sector. Through specialized programs, global collaborations, and leadership initiatives, we are equipping professionals to thrive and lead.

One of our larger goals is to increase the number of female trainers and mentors in energy. When women train women, the ripple effect is unstoppable.

Women in Energy: Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

For decades, women in India’s energy sector have had to prove their worth, challenge stereotypes, and navigate invisible barriers. But today, they are transforming the industry. In rural India, women are leading solar microgrid projects, training others, and bringing energy to places that have never had electricity before. In cities, women engineers and policymakers are shaping the future of renewable energy. Yet, the numbers tell us we still have work to do. However, with the right support and policies, this is changing.

Closing the Gap: The Power of Education & Mentorship

The solution lies in education, mentorship, and opportunity. At GETRI, we are committed to bridging this gap by training more women as technical experts and leaders, creating mentorship programs, and offering specialised training to upskill them in both technical and managerial domains.

One of the biggest enablers of this shift has been Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Ltd.’s (GUVNL’s) progressive leadership, which actively supports and values women professionals. We are not just creating opportunities; we are ensuring that women have a platform to thrive.

A Future Powered by Knowledge & Equality

"Diversity in energy is not just a moral obligation - it is an economic and strategic necessity."

As India moves towards net zero emissions, we cannot afford to leave half the talent pool behind. Governments, industries, and training institutions must work together to promote policies that actively encourage women’s participation, break workplace biases, and invest in gender-responsive education and training programs.

On this International Women’s Day, I celebrate every woman who has stepped into the energy sector, defied norms and continues pushing forward. To young women aspiring to enter this field, my message is simple: Believe in your abilities. Seek mentorship. Take up space. The energy industry needs your vision, skills, and leadership.

As I reflect on my journey - from a young professional at NPTI to leading GETRI’s mission of training and transformation - I feel a deep responsibility. A responsibility to create opportunities, break down barriers and ensure that talent - not gender - defines success in energy.

The energy sector isn’t just transitioning to renewables - it’s transitioning toward equality. The future belongs to those who power it. And women are ready to lead. Here’s to lighting the way - for ourselves, and for generations to come.

Alka Yadav,

Director at Green Energy Transition Research Institute,

Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam