At ISEA, we are proud to highlight the incredible women driving the renewable energy transition. This month, we feature Brigid Walsh, a Project Design Director with extensive experience in the design, installation, and commissioning of solar PV systems. With a passion for sustainability and a deep technical understanding of solar energy, Brigid has played a key role in developing over 12MWp of solar installations across Ireland.
A Career Rooted in Sustainability
Brigid’s journey into solar energy was shaped by her broader background in engineering. While she has worked across multiple disciplines, she found true purpose in solar PV, where she could combine technical expertise with environmental impact.
"I’ve worked across various engineering disciplines, but since focusing on solar PV energy, I have found a true sense of personal fulfilment in my work. I believe this comes from my passion for environmental causes and protecting the Earth’s natural resources."
For Brigid, renewable energy is not just a career—it’s about making a tangible difference for future generations. Her belief in leaving the Earth in a better condition has been a guiding principle throughout her professional life.
Two of her proudest milestones were graduating as an engineer in 2011 and achieving Chartered Engineer status in 2020, a recognition of expertise and leadership in her field. These accomplishments reflect her commitment to excellence and continuous professional growth.
Women in Solar: Challenges & Opportunities
As a female engineer in the solar industry, Brigid has witnessed positive change over the past decade. She acknowledges that gender representation in engineering has improved, and she feels that the challenges she has faced have been purely technical rather than gender related.
"As a female engineer in the Solar PV industry, I can confidently say that the challenges I've faced in the workplace have been purely related to engineering, not my gender."
Brigid sees solar as an industry with limitless potential for women, offering diverse career paths beyond engineering, from business development and marketing to project management and system design.
Her advice to women considering a career in renewable energy? Now is the time to get involved. With continuous advancements in solar technology and growing global demand for clean energy, the opportunities in this space are expanding rapidly.
"The renewable energy sector is growing rapidly, and I believe a career in solar PV energy will mark the beginning of an incredible journey. With continuous technological advancements and innovations, this sector is on track for sustained growth and success, making the future incredibly exciting."
The Future of Solar in Ireland
Brigid sees major growth opportunities for solar in Ireland, especially as rising energy costs make renewable solutions more attractive. She highlights the increasing accessibility of solar projects through enhanced government grants, which are making decarbonisation efforts more financially feasible for businesses and community organisations.
"With enhanced grants for businesses covering 20 to 30 per cent of the investment, it’s becoming easier for companies to reduce energy costs and decarbonise. This scheme is also available for public buildings, sports clubs, and community organisations."
One of the innovations that excites her most is Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). These systems allow solar power to be stored and used when needed, improving grid stability and energy security.
"I'm truly excited and passionate about Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) as they are revolutionising solar PV energy. Their ability to store excess energy during the day and release it when needed creates a more stable and reliable energy source."
She is particularly interested in how AI-driven predictive maintenance is enhancing system performance, reducing downtime, and making solar installations more efficient.
Shaping the Industry Through Innovation
Having worked on research projects and large-scale solar developments, Brigid is focused on pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in renewable energy. She actively seeks cutting-edge technologies to improve solar performance and efficiency, ensuring that Ireland stays at the forefront of the clean energy revolution.
"The future of solar PV is both exciting and promising, and I’m eager to contribute to Ireland’s efforts in achieving their 2030 targets."
Brigid also emphasises the importance of mentorship and visibility in supporting women in STEM. She believes that highlighting female leaders in solar is essential to inspiring the next generation.
"I truly believe in the idea of ‘If you can’t see it, you can’t be it.’ By celebrating women in their fields and elevating them to the forefront of the solar PV industry, we can make a game-changing impact."
A Career Built on Growth & Mentorship
Throughout her career, Brigid has been guided by mentors who encouraged her ambition. She credits SETU (South East Technological University) as a pivotal influence in her journey, giving her the confidence to become a Chartered Engineer and business owner.
As she looks to the future, she remains committed to supporting the growth of solar in Ireland, advocating for more women in STEM, and continuing to innovate in the renewable energy space.
Brigid's career is a testament to the transformative power of renewable energy—not just in decarbonising the planet, but in creating fulfilling, impactful careers.
Comments