Mariam Diedericks, Director at Coalition Energy Projects

Bio 

Mariam Diedericks is a distinguished entrepreneur and esteemed figure within the flourishing Renewable Energy/Solar PV sector. Her professional journey commenced with a notable tenure of 14 years in the domains of Private and Retail Banking, followed by a decisive foray into the realm of entrepreneurship in 2003. Over the course of her illustrious career, she has initiated multiple enterprises, with particular pride vested in her family-owned establishment in the Electrical Contracting sphere, a venture that has progressively expanded its scope to encompass the Green Economy.

Educationally, Mariam Diedericks undertook her tertiary studies at the esteemed Damelin Institute, where she diligently pursued her academic aspirations. As a testament to her commitment to professional excellence, she has achieved certification as a proficient Project Manager, a distinction that underscores her competence in orchestrating complex undertakings. Demonstrating her dedication to fostering the growth of small enterprises, she successfully concluded a Post Graduate program in Small Business Consulting, concurrently pursuing further academic enrichment through her ongoing pursuit of an MBA (Masters in Business Administration), which she completed online.

Mariam Diedericks’ active involvement in the business community is notably marked by her tenure as Chairperson of the Athlone branch of the Cape Chamber of Commerce, a role in which she provided invaluable leadership and strategic guidance. Presently, she holds a prominent position on the board of the Western Cape Business Opportunities Forum (WECBOF), where her insightful contributions continue to shape regional business initiatives.

Beyond her entrepreneurial accomplishments, Mariam Diedericks holds the distinction of being a certified Business and Life Coach, channeling her expertise towards the advancement of women, family-owned enterprises, and the younger generation. As a visionary founder and esteemed director of a non-profit organization, her altruistic endeavors are centered on the empowerment of community-based NGO leadership, driven by a comprehensive approach encompassing education, training, and economic empowerment. Her multifaceted contributions underscore her status as an influential and compassionate leader dedicated to fostering lasting positive change within both the business and societal realms.


Questions

How did you end up in the energy sector and what advice would you give to other women wanting to follow a similar career trajectory?

I found my way into the energy sector through a strategic pivot driven by the necessity for innovation and diversification in our struggling Electrical Construction business. Recognizing the changing landscape of electricity within our country, I saw the potential in solar photovoltaics (PV) and seized the opportunity. The decision was rooted not only in economic considerations but also in my genuine excitement about the positive societal and environmental impacts that renewable energy could bring.

For women aspiring to embark on a similar career trajectory in the energy sector, I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore the boundless opportunities that await you. The time is ripe for women to make their mark, not only in the energy sector but also across the entire Green Economy.

What do you see as the role of women in ensuring energy security and resilience in the power sector?

Diverse Perspectives and Leadership: Women bring unique perspectives and insights to the table, which can lead to better decision-making and problem-solving. In a sector as complex as the power industry, having a diverse range of voices and ideas can result in more innovative and inclusive strategies for achieving energy security and resilience.

Skills and Expertise: Women have made significant strides in education and career advancement, acquiring skills and expertise across various disciplines. in areas such as engineering, technology, research, and policy can directly impact the energy sector’s resilience and efficiency.

Community Engagement and Education: Women often play a central role in communities, and their involvement can be instrumental in educating and raising awareness about energy conservation, renewable energy, and sustainable practices.

What message do you have for other women entering a male-dominated sector?

Your presence and contributions are invaluable and have the power to create positive change not only for yourself but for future generations of women as well.

Believe in Yourself: Remember that you are just as capable, talented, and deserving as anyone else in your chosen field. Your gender does not define your abilities. Embrace your strengths and believe in your potential.

Stay Resilient: Challenges and obstacles may come your way, but don’t let them deter you. Your determination and resilience will play a crucial role in your success. Use setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.

Seek Mentorship: Find mentors, both men and women, who can guide you and provide valuable insights based on their experiences. They can offer advice, share their own struggles, and help you navigate the unique dynamics of your sector.

Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with a supportive community of like-minded individuals. Connect with other women in your field and share your experiences, successes, and challenges. Building a network can provide you with encouragement and a sense of belonging.

Continuous Learning: Stay curious and committed to learning and self-improvement. Industries are constantly evolving, and staying up-to-date with the latest developments will enhance your competitiveness and confidence.

What unique opportunities do you see for women in your sector?

STEM Education and Careers: The energy sector heavily relies on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Initiatives have been launched to encourage women to pursue STEM education and careers in fields like renewable energy, clean technology, data analytics, and engineering.

Renewable Energy: The transition to renewable energy sources presents significant opportunities for women. As the renewable energy sector grows, there is a chance to establish a more balanced and diverse workforce from the outset, unlike some traditional energy industries that have been established for decades.

Energy Access and Poverty Alleviation: In many developing countries, women are disproportionately affected by energy poverty. Initiatives are addressing this issue by empowering women through training programs for clean energy technologies and involving them in projects that aim to provide energy access to underserved communities.

What recent legal or regulatory changes do you think have the potential to make a positive impact on energy access in Africa?

Renewable Energy Incentives and Support: Many African countries have started implementing policies and regulations to encourage the growth of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. These incentives may include feed-in tariffs, tax breaks, or subsidies to attract investment in clean energy projects and make them more economically viable.

Off-Grid Solutions: Governments and international organizations have been supporting off-grid energy solutions, such as mini-grids and standalone solar systems. Policies that facilitate the deployment of these technologies can help reach remote and rural areas that are often overlooked by centralized grid expansion.

Support for Local Entrepreneurs: Governments and organizations are recognizing the potential of local entrepreneurs in driving energy access solutions. By providing financial and regulatory support to these entrepreneurs, the development of innovative energy technologies and business models can be accelerated.

What opportunities do you see in Africa’s energy market?

Addressing Energy Poverty: More than half of the population in Africa lacks access to reliable electricity, leading to widespread energy poverty. solar home systems and mini-grids, present an opportunity to bring electricity to remote and underserved regions, thereby improving the lives of millions of people.

Rising Demand: As economies grow and populations increase, the demand for energy also rises. Off-grid solutions can play a crucial role in meeting this demand, especially in areas where extending the traditional grid might be financially or logistically challenging.

Renewable Energy Potential: Africa has abundant renewable energy resources, including ample sunlight in many regions. Solar energy, in particular, can be harnessed effectively, making it an attractive option for decentralized energy solutions.

Feature – Prof Roula Inglesi-Lotz, Professor at the Dept of Economics | University of Pretoria

Bio 

Prof Roula Inglesi-Lotz is a Professor in the Department of Economics at the University of Pretoria. She obtained her MCom in Economics (cum laude) and earned her doctorate in economics in 2011 from the same institution. Prof Inglesi-Lotz serves as the head of the Energy Economics Unit at the University of Pretoria and leads the university’s research team in the UNDP Just Energy Transition (JET) platform.

Her research revolves around energy and environmental issues, aiming to address challenges related to conventional energy consumption and generation methods. Prof. Inglesi-Lotz has an impressive publication record, with over 90 academic papers published in reputable international journals and contributions to books and academic and business reports.

Prof. Inglesi-Lotz holds editorial positions in respected international journals, including Energy Policy (JEPO), Energy Economics (ENECO), and Environmental Science and Pollution Research (ESPR). She actively participates in professional organizations, currently serving as the Vice President for Membership and Affiliate Relations of the International Association for Energy Economics. She was also a founding member and President of the South African Association for Energy Economics for four years.

In addition, Prof. Inglesi-Lotz is an alumnus of the South African Young Academy of Sciences (SAYAS) and the Global Young Academy (GYA). Her contributions include serving as a co-chair for SAYAS in 2019/20 and representing low- and middle-income countries as a co-chair for GYA in 2021/22.

Recognizing her accomplishments, Prof. Inglesi-Lotz received the Women in Science prize in the Social Sciences and Humanities categories from the South African Department of Science and Technology (DST) in 2017. She is also an NRF C1-rated scientist, effective from January 2023.

Prof. Roula Inglesi-Lotz’s expertise and dedication in the field of energy economics have made her a prominent academic and leader. Her research contributions and involvement in various organizations showcase her commitment to advancing knowledge and sustainable energy solutions.


Questions

How did you end up in the energy sector and what advice would you give to other women wanting to follow a similar career trajectory?

My journey into the energy field commenced with a focus on economics and academia. I became curious after the early power outages in the nation during my Master’s program in 2008. This sparked my interest in learning about the complexities of the energy sector’s problems and led me to learn more about the areas of energy pricing, its connections to the economy, the creation of policies, and environmental considerations.

I would advise prospective women seeking a similar career track to embrace the interdisciplinary character of the energy sector. By thoroughly examining energy’s various characteristics, we can provide essential insights to inform successful policy decisions, promote sustainable growth, and address significant energy-related concerns. Additionally, I urge educators to stress the value of energy literacy in economics courses.

In your opinion, why do you think the energy sector in its current state has less female representation and do you see it increasing?

Historical, sociological, and professional challenges can be attributed to the underrepresentation of women in the energy sector today. By limiting their participation and influence within the sector, this monodisciplinary perspective unintentionally helped to marginalise women. A requirement for admittance into the energy business is frequently high levels of education and experience, which may have been challenging for women to meet, given historical discrepancies in access to educational opportunities. Moreover, a sizable section of the female workforce may have unintentionally been excluded due to some physically demanding requirements related to unskilled occupations in the sector. Furthermore, this cycle has been exacerbated by the lack of obvious female role models.

Positive change is being sparked by famous female executives shattering stereotypes and promoting an egalitarian workplace atmosphere. This positive cycle is gradually eliminating gender disparities and advancing the industry toward a more diversified future, indicating hope for long-term advancement.

What message do you have for other women entering a male-dominated sector?

It is important to avoid becoming discouraged by underrepresentation. Instead, women should see this as a chance to refute and alter assumptions. Instead of following established conventions, the way forward is to embrace their true self and put their distinctive viewpoints on display. I urge them to be steadfast in sharing their opinions, ideas, and observations. Assist other women, creating a network of mentoring and support. By doing this, young women can increase their influence and amplify the voices and aspirations of those around them.

I want to encourage others to be brave, genuine and strive to be change agents. Advance knowing that by embracing their individuality and unique vision, they are entering a male-dominated industry and starting a transformative journey that will move the industry towards genuine equality, creativity, and greatness.

What opportunities do you see in Africa’s energy market?

The abundance of renewable energy resources, the opportunity for off-grid solutions to reach disadvantaged areas, and the ability to close energy access gaps to promote economic growth, healthcare, and education make Africa’s energy market a promising terrain for transformative changes. The region’s potential is further amplified by novel financing strategies, improvements in energy efficiency, and cross-border integration, while cutting-edge technologies like battery storage and natural gas development present opportunities to overcome current infrastructural constraints and improve sustainability.

Solar potential: Africa’s strategic location along the equator provides abundant solar resources, which are a foundation for developing renewable energy sources. This potential gives a special chance for local manufacturing and job growth in addition to energy generation alone. African nations can use their solar resources to create clean electricity and establish local solar manufacturing sectors, promoting economic growth and sustainability. This is possible as solar technology becomes more widely available and more affordable.

Hydropower potential and Hydrogen economy: The continent’s large river networks and water resources hold enormous hydropower potential. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and the Inga Dam Complex are two hydroelectric projects that could be strategically developed to power nearby communities and the developing hydrogen economy. Africa can position itself as a key player in the global shift toward sustainable hydrogen utilization by utilising excess hydropower to produce green hydrogen through electrolysis and providing a clean energy option for various sectors while leveraging its natural resource advantages.

What recent legal or regulatory changes do you think have the potential to make a positive impact on energy access in Africa?

The Renewable Energy Master Plans of Nigeria and South Africa are two examples of ambitious renewable energy objectives and regulations that pave the way for increased clean energy production and enhanced access to electricity. The Energy Act of 2019 in Kenya is a practical example of a practical action that goes along with these regulatory reforms. Initiatives to liberalise the energy sector also encourage private investment and foster healthy competition, as seen in Ethiopia and Uganda. The continent’s congruent international commitments demonstrated by its active involvement in the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement, represent a collective desire to advance fair access to energy and sustainable development in Africa.

Interview – Oluwatoyin Abegunde, Regional Commercial Development Executive, GE

Watch our interview with Oluwatoyin Abegunde

Oluwatoyin Abegunde (fondly known as Toyin) is a true powerhouse in the industry, she is the

Regional Commercial Development Executive, at GE . Sub-Saharan Africa.

As the Commercial Development Executive for the Aeroderivative turbines in Sub-sahara Africa, her role is focused on delivering volume and backlog growth for the Aero product line in SSA.

Interview – Zoe Nambahu, Chief Legal, Compliance & Company Secretariat at NamPower

Watch our interview with Zoe Nambahu

“It is essential that as women we capitalize on the opportunities available to us, in terms of learning and growth before the potentials are realized.”

These are the words of the phenomenal Zoe Nambahu, Chief Legal Advisor, Compliance and Company Secretariat at Namibia Power Corporation – heading legal and governance advisory, compliance, business process mapping, preferential procurement compliance and the Aviation division.

She is also a Non-Executive Director and Chairperson of the Erongo RED Board of Directors, a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Hollard Life and Hollard Insurance Namibia and an External Trustee on Alexander Forbes Umbrella Funds.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/BNsTUAOCCoI?si=kCiaXL0pgZzMXcXU

Interview – Belinda (Marais) Dawson, Senior Technical Support Officer: SARPA President

Listen to our interview with Belinda Dawson

In this episode, Claire Volkwyn, Head of Content for Enlit Africa, sits down with Belinda Dawson to discuss her journey as a woman in Africa’s energy industry.

Belinda is a powerhouse in her field, serving as the Senior Technical Support Officer at the Electrical Department for Swartland Municipality. Not only that, she’s also the President of the Southern Africa Revenue Protection Association (SARPA).

With a wealth of experience as a Revenue Protection Specialist, Belinda’s expertise shines through in areas such as customer service, data analysis, credit control, and management. Her strong public relationship, investigative, and negotiation skills make her a true force to be reckoned with!

Listen to the podcast to gain valuable insights and inspiration from one of the leading women in the energy industry: