Veja como você pode impulsionar sua carreira em energia renovável pensando fora da caixa.

Knowledge and continuous learning about the renewable energy sector is essential if you want to grow. The same applies to other sectors, without a doubt. One of the best pieces of advice I can offer from my personal experience is: “GO TO THE SITE.” When you are on-site, your problem-solving abilities, understanding of project timelines, and overall knowledge of all phases of a renewable energy project multiply. Theory is necessary, but seeing the practice up close and real is crucial. So... GO TO THE SITE!

Propelling your career by thinking outside the box involves adopting innovative strategies, embracing emerging technologies, and leveraging unique opportunities to stand out in the field. Pursue Interdisciplinary Knowledge: Combine your expertise in renewable energy with knowledge from other fields such as data science, artificial intelligence, finance, or policy. Engage in Research and Development: Get involved in cutting-edge research projects. Partner with academic institutions, research labs, or companies working on breakthrough technologies. Start a Blog or YouTube Channel: Share your insights, experiences, and knowledge about renewable energy. This can help you build a personal brand, establish yourself as a thought leader.

I've only got 3 years of experience but here it goes. No doubt learning is important, but learning from the right source is what matters. And the best source is experienced people. I've had a chance to work with people who bring knowledge from their time in industry. Try reaching different departments and ask them questions. Helps a lot in the long run.

Renewable energy sector is a fast paced environment where technologies and implementing methods quite literally improve on a daily basis. So it is especially important to be up to date with the most of new products in the specific technical area you work within, as well as some other fields. Even when it becomes overwhelming from time to time stay curious but DO NOT FORGET TO ENJOY the process of learning about new technologies. And always fact check your sources.

Renewables have grown at an unprecedented rate over the past decade. With the improvements in technologies, new business cases are being developed as well. It is important to take a learning-based approach to challenges in the industry. Embrace innovation, take calculated risks - both in your role and in your career to push the perceived boundaries on what is possible. Many times, overabundance or even lack of data creates a lot of noise. Learn how to simplify problems and develop and outcomes or solutions-based approach to solving them. Lastly lean in on your team. You go faster and further when you are able to combine skills and expertise from multiple industries!

Don't just go to conferences and participate in events. Seek out information and advice and connections, write to leaders in your field or in areas that fascinate you. Be proactive. Ask difficult questions. Most experts are incredibly generous with their knowledge and will enjoy enquiries and debate, and you never know where connections might lead

Networking is the essential component for success in any field let alone the renewable energy sector. By forging strategic connections with a diverse array of stakeholders—from policymakers to industry experts—professionals can catalyze innovation, drive systemic change, and accelerate the global transition to sustainable energy. Effective networking is not just about building relationships; it's about cultivating collaborations that amplify impact, shape policy, and pave the way for a greener future. In the fast-paced world of renewable energy, mastering the art of network nuance is the key to unlocking opportunities, driving progress, and leaving a lasting imprint on the sustainable energy landscape.

Networking is essential in renewable energies as it can be for every industry. In my experience working in different countries, I can say that everything comes down to always having an open and positive attitude, taking care of relationships, and contacts are always emerging from one to another. One good contact always leads to another.

Faça networking com propósito e criatividade. Participe de conferências do setor e eventos interdisciplinares onde você possa conhecer profissionais de áreas como tecnologia, finanças ou políticas. Essas conexões oferecem novas perspectivas e podem levar a colaborações inovadoras, desencadeando o próximo grande avanço em soluções de energia sustentável.

The fascinating thing about renewable energy and other green industries is how vibrant the networking is. It’s a field full of mission-driven disruptors. Look locally for happy hours, conferences, online webinars, and look to build out your network. The power and energy sector is so complex and specialized, you’ll never know when that new friend may be invaluable in the future. If none of these things exist, try start your own. It doesn’t have to be big to have tremendous impact.

Diverse experience gives you insight into how other people think, which is crucial in a sector that relies on specialized people (engineers, policymakers, finance teams, operations, etc.). Energy is highly complex - and gaining diverse experience in this sector will help you uncover how each aspect interacts with the greater whole. There are many approaches. This could be working on projects related to generation, transmission, or distribution; working at a utility, developer, or government agency; or even seeking out new roles within your own firm.

In the realm of renewable energy, diverse experiences drive innovation. Visionary professionals lead by collaborating with diverse minds, exploring new horizons, and cultivating connections. By embracing diverse experiences, they sculpt sustainable solutions for a greener future.

To propel your career in renewable energy, seek diverse experiences to help you think outside the box. Engage in projects or roles that push you out of your comfort zone. For instance, if you're primarily focused on solar energy, explore opportunities in wind or hydro energy. Platforms like LinkedIn Jobs or industry-specific job boards can help you find these roles. Additionally, volunteer for cross-functional teams or industry conferences. By gaining a variety of experiences, you broaden your perspective and enhance your ability to innovate. This diverse background not only enriches your skill set but also makes you a more versatile and valuable professional in the renewable energy sector.

Diverse experiences in renewable energy are crucial for driving innovation and effective solutions. By incorporating insights from various fields such as engineering, environmental science, and social sciences, the industry can address complex challenges more comprehensively. This multidisciplinary approach enhances the development and implementation of renewable technologies, making the transition to sustainable energy more efficient and equitable.

These three out of the box ways can propel your career in renewable energy: 1) Cross-Disciplinary Expertise is definitely one out of the box way. Merge renewable energy with fields like artificial intelligence, blockchain, or Internet of Things (IoT) to innovate new solutions (Of course I’ll talk about tech 🗣️). Gain expertise in regulatory aspects and influence policy-making to drive renewable energy adoption. 2) Cross-Sector Partnerships: Collaborate with organizations in agriculture, urban planning, or transportation to integrate renewable energy solutions. 3) Organize/Participate in Competitions: Participate in or organize events to solve renewable energy challenges, gaining visibility and networking with industry leaders.

Creative minds are boosted by dynamic environments. Renewable energy has a high level of connections with other engineering fields, such as hydraulics and solid waste. The specific knowledge you have can be the ignition for the brightest insights. Try to look out for market innovations, be aware of the possibilities around you, create a record of your ideas and never stop adding diverse knowledge into your routine.

Focus on developing creative problem-solving skills that help you think outside the box. Embrace tools like mind mapping software (MindMeister) or brainstorming platforms (Stormboard) to generate innovative ideas. For example, if you're tackling energy storage challenges, use these tools to explore unconventional solutions such as new battery technologies or hybrid systems. By honing your creative problem-solving abilities, you become adept at finding unique solutions to complex issues. This not only sets you apart in the renewable energy field but also drives significant advancements in your projects, showcasing your ability to think innovatively and effectively.

Harnessing, storing, and transmitting renewable energy require creative problem-solving skills to drive innovation and overcome challenges. Creative solutions optimize energy capture, such as innovative solar panel configurations and advanced wind turbine designs. In storage, new battery technologies and hydrogen production methods benefit from creative approaches. When transmitting energy, smart grid systems and HVDC technology rely on creative problem solvers to enhance efficiency and reliability. By applying creative problem-solving skills, professionals in renewable energy lead innovation, advance sustainable solutions, and pave the way for a greener future.

Embrace cross-disciplinary collaboration and invest in R&D for emerging tech like AI. Implement pilot projects to test solutions before scaling up, and adopt a circular economy approach to minimize waste. Engage communities early, prioritize adaptability, learn from failures, foster an entrepreneurial spirit, leverage data analytics, and embrace global cooperation for shared benefits. These strategies will drive innovation in renewable energy efficiency, storage, and grid integration.

Creative problem solving in renewable energy involves leveraging innovative technologies and interdisciplinary approaches to overcome challenges like storage, efficiency, and scalability. By fostering collaboration between scientists, engineers, and policymakers, solutions such as advanced battery technologies, smart grids, and novel renewable materials can be developed. This proactive and inventive mindset is essential for accelerating the transition to a sustainable energy future and addressing climate change.

There is no greater global perspective than what you can see with your own eyes. I have been fortunate enough to work in many countries implementing renewable energies. And I have seen firsthand how projects can change entire communities. Enrich them and provide opportunities. You always have to be aware of everything involved in a project and how it affects the population. The sum of all the populations can give you the overall global picture, and, from my point of view, I can say, it always generates a positive impact. Renewables are the key to the future.

Global insight is necessary to be increased and we can obtain the lessons learned from around the world not only from our country. We need to have diverse perspectives so that we can tackle the problems with better solutions and this solution usually not only comes from our thinking, but also we get inspiration from many countries and we combine those solutions to overcome the problem in renewable energy projects in our country. For instance, I am recently taking a course in the political economy of energy transition which discusses to experience of energy transition from around the world and the issues that every country faces. Afterwards, those perspectives to decrease the issues can be imitated and implemented in my country.

Renewable energy is crucial globally for various reasons: 1. Climate Change Mitigation: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions in alignment with international agreements. 2. Energy Security: Diversifying sources to reduce reliance on finite fossil fuels. 3. Economic Development: Creating jobs, attracting investment, and driving innovation. 4. Public Health: Improving air quality and reducing pollution for better health. 5. Energy Access: Providing electricity to remote areas with off-grid solutions. 6. Technological Advancements: Advancing clean energy technologies for efficiency and affordability. 7. International Cooperation: Collaborating to accelerate renewable energy deployment and share best practices.

The global perspective on renewable energy is increasingly optimistic, with many countries prioritizing the transition to cleaner sources to combat climate change. Investments in solar, wind, and other renewables are growing, driven by technological advancements and decreasing costs. However, challenges such as infrastructure development, policy support, and equitable access remain critical to achieving widespread adoption and sustainability.

Be careful here. For every thought leader that really leads thought, there are a million self promoters. For every real influencer, there are a million people flogging products. Find your own way - in a world where we are are heading for 8 billion online presences, an online presence MAY be a brilliant move; but plan and populate it really well, because on the other hand it may not showcase your passion but brand you as one of the bunch.

7. Ensuciarse las manos. No hay existe ningún estudio formal o nivel académico que pueda reemplazar la experiencia de palpar cada etapa de un proyecto. Definitivamente nunca dejes de ensuciarte las manos participando en el ensamble y configuración de los equipos

Compartilhe seus insights nas mídias sociais, escreva artigos em plataformas como Medium ou inicie um blog. Posicionar-se como um líder de pensamento atrairá a atenção de colegas da indústria e potenciais empregadores que valorizam pensamento inovador e uma forte identidade profissional no espaço de energia renovável.

To propel your career in renewable energy by thinking outside the box, consider these two more strategies: 1. **Entrepreneurial Approach:** Consider starting your venture or collaborating with startups to bring fresh ideas and disrupt the industry with new business models or products. 2. **Sustainability Advocacy:** Be an advocate for sustainable practices within your organization and industry, showcasing your commitment to environmental stewardship and positioning yourself as a thought leader in renewable energy.

Take some time to understand the underlying science and engineering behind the assets you are considering. Remember that If something 'feels' to good to be true it probably is (e.g. "Zero Maintenance", " Green", "Low Carbon")