Inspiring Women Drive Innovation in Renewable Energy and Green Hydrogen in Brazil

Brazil’s energy sector is undergoing a rapid transformation — and among the driving forces of this change are women like Claudia de Andrade Lino and Júlia Rosenthal, two engineers who are reshaping the way the country approaches energy storage and green hydrogen. Their work highlights not only the growing importance of female leadership in energy, but also how diversity and education are essential for building a modern, sustainable energy market.

Inspiring Women Drive Innovation in Renewable Energy and Green Hydrogen in Brazil

Claudia, a mechanical engineer specializing in renewables, leads hybrid energy projects at SANY New Energy, integrating solar power plants with cutting-edge battery storage systems (BESS). Júlia, an electrical engineer with a PhD from the Federal University of Uberlândia and a postdoctoral degree from UFSC, spearheads green hydrogen initiatives at WEG. She is also a strong advocate for inclusion and diversity in the power sector — and a prominent voice for transgender women in STEM.

Inspiring Women Drive Innovation in Renewable Energy and Green Hydrogen in Brazil

Education: The Cornerstone of Professional Development

Both engineers emphasize that education and training are non-negotiable in a sector evolving as fast as renewable energy.

Claudia credits technical schools, universities, and scholarships as key stepping stones in her career and encourages the next generation to follow a similar path:

“If you can, go to a technical school or get a degree in technology. Apply for scholarships and programs whenever possible. Self-development is the key to reaching leadership positions.”

Júlia agrees, stressing that personal effort and continuous learning are the foundation of transformation:

“Don’t wait for anyone to develop you. Seek knowledge. Pursue a master’s degree, a PhD, a postdoc. Dedication to education opens doors and allows you to lead breakthrough projects.”

Diversity and Inclusion: Strengthening the Energy Transition

Beyond technical expertise, diversity is another crucial pillar of growth in the energy sector. Júlia, a trans woman, and Claudia, a leader in microgrid projects, both highlight that gender equity and racial inclusion are not just ethical imperatives — they are strategic advantages. Diverse teams deliver more innovative and effective solutions.

The Girls in Energy and Women in Energy programs, supported by organizations such as the Brazilian Distributed Generation Association (ABGD) and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), highlight the importance of inspiring young people and showing that engineering is also a career path for girls and women.

Energy Storage: The Backbone of a Renewable Future

As Brazil continues to integrate variable renewable sources like solar and wind, energy storage systems are becoming essential. Claudia explains that BESS technology allows stored energy to be used during periods without sun or wind, ensuring grid stability and making processes like green hydrogen production more efficient.

“The market is expanding rapidly, and we need qualified professionals. We need training institutions across the country to provide maintenance, operation, and technical support. Without that, we can’t build trust in the technology.”

Júlia adds:

“Storage isn’t just about batteries — it’s about power quality and reliability. Without it, projects in hydrogen, fertilizers, and clean mobility could face major risks.”

Green Hydrogen: Opportunity for Export and Domestic Industry

With one of the cleanest energy matrices in the world, Brazil is uniquely positioned to become a global leader in green hydrogen production. Júlia points out that, in addition to exports, local industries — such as fertilizers and petrochemicals — will benefit from low-carbon hydrogen produced domestically.

“We can produce certified, low-carbon hydrogen and export it to Europe — or use it locally to attract new industries to the country. It’s a promising and strategic market.”

Women in Engineering: Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Change

While women are still a minority in the engineering field, professionals like Claudia and Júlia are proving that excellence and determination can overcome barriers. Claudia recalls that, during her mechanical engineering degree, only five women were in a class of sixty students.

“Women still need to constantly prove their value. We need to study, upskill, and actively seek opportunities. Gender equity in energy is still a challenge, but we are moving toward a more inclusive future.”

Júlia reinforces this vision:

“There is no inclusive energy transition without gender and racial diversity. We must be present and inspire the next generation.”

Toward a More Sustainable and Inclusive Energy Sector

The insights shared by Claudia and Júlia reveal a powerful truth: innovation, education, and diversity are key to making Brazil a global benchmark for renewable energy and green hydrogen. Their careers are proof that technical expertise, combined with social impact, is transforming not just the energy industry — but the culture around it.

Inspiring Women Drive Innovation in Renewable Energy and Green Hydrogen in Brazil