There must be a way if I learn…

In a support to bridge the gender gap in Indonesia's energy sector, an initiative has been undertaken by ACCESS project with targeting female operators to participate in the training for photovoltaic (PV) solar power plant operation and maintenance. This program represents a critical step toward encouraging women's involvement in an industry that has been predominantly male-dominated for years. 

Rani, a young woman from Muara Ripung Village in South Barito Regency, found herself at a crossroads when she heard about the training opportunity in 2021. Initially filled with self-doubt, she questioned her ability to handle such technical responsibilities. “I don’t have experience, and I thought operating and maintaining a solar power plant would be too complicated for me. Electrical engineering felt like a world away,” she admitted. Yet, fuelled by the support of her family, Rani began to reconsider. “My family motivated me; they reminded me that if I wanted to work and learn, I had to take the leap. There must be a way,” she reflected remembering the prior selection process of local operators in 2021. 

Rani eventually enrolled in the training in 2022 managed by PPSDM the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR) Indonesia. The weeks that followed were filled with both challenges and breakthroughs. Surrounded by other women who shared similar courage, she found such great support. Together, they tackled the technical aspects of the training, delving into the intricacies of solar technology, electrical systems, and maintenance procedures. Each lesson brought Rani closer to realizing her potential. 

As the training progressed, Rani's confidence developed. She learned not only the technical skills required for the role but also the importance of her contribution to her community. Central Kalimantan, where her village is located, faced significant energy shortages, and Rani envisioned a future where she could help bring reliable electricity to her fellow villagers. “I hope to contribute to my community and be part of the change we need,” she said during an interview in 2022. 

Andriah Feby, the Director of Various, New and Renewable Energy at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, attended the 2022 training sessions and expressed her optimism about the role of female operators in the energy sector. “Looking at the female operators during the training, I believe they can inspire other women to increase their involvement in the clean energy sector,” she stated, underscoring the importance of visibility and representation. 

The results of the 2022 training underscored the program's success. The EBTKE (New and Renewable Energy) Unit in MEMR noted that the female operators demonstrated technical knowledge and skills that matched their male counterparts. This shift not only empowered individual women like Rani but also served as a catalyst for broader change within the community. Rani and her peers became shining examples of what could be achieved when women were given the opportunity to thrive in non-traditional roles. 

To ensure the training's effectiveness, the ACCESS team incorporated Gender Empowerment and Social Inclusion (GESI) sessions before the technical training commenced. These sessions were designed to raise awareness among organizers and trainers about the challenges women face in these fields. Ginanjar, a trainer from PPSDM, expressed his reflections after attending the GESI session: “I am now more aware of gender-biased issues. It turns out that many things we often take for granted need to be addressed and discussed.” 

As Rani completed her training and returned to her village, she felt empowered to take on her new role as a local solar power operator. Currently, as the solar power plant has already operationalised, Rani has undertaken day-to-day duty as local operator. She envisions her journey as just the beginning—a stepping stone for other women in her community to follow. Rani’s story and the collective efforts of women like her symbolize a significant shift toward gender equity in Indonesia’s energy landscape, proving that with the right support and opportunities, women can shine as leaders and innovators in the clean energy sector.