Diversity of knowledge critical to succeed says Sofia Tavares

In this edition of Power Women, a Q&A series highlighting women across the value chain in the energy sector, Kamogelo Motse talks to Sofia Tavares.

Sofia Tavares is Product Marketing B2B Director at EDP, a utility that started 40 years ago in Portugal and has grown to be a global energy company.

What attracted you to work in the energy sector?

It is because energy powers everything we do, driving the world and the real economy. Understanding industry processes, focusing on energy efficiency, allowed me to make a tangible difference, contributing to a sustainable future.

Who is your role model in (or outside of) the energy sector?

I really enjoy reading biographies because life stories inspire me. I don't have one role model but several: passion for making a difference through innovation and doing things differently, building empathetically as a team to create more value, and resilience to the achievement of a main goal. These are abilities that create a role model in every industry.

What do you love about your job?

Being able to participate in the real economy and to be an active part of the energy transition. Feeling that you are writing the future is overwhelming!

Why is diversity important for the energy industry?

What we are experiencing in the energy sector and what we still must be able to boost, is a revolution: technologically, socially, and economically. The diversity of knowledge, experiences and perspectives are critical assets for us to be successful.

What is the biggest challenge and opportunity for the energy transition in the next year?

The geopolitical landscape has significantly influenced the urgency for which we must pursue our net-zero targets for 2050. In the coming year, governments have a unique opportunity to stimulate economic growth by implementing incentive programmes that accelerate the electrification of the economy as part of the energy transition. We can expect a growing emphasis on energy storage and the electrification of industrial heat in the year ahead.

Have you read?
How innovation is driving the energy revolution at EDP
We need to keep impact top of mind when it comes to innovation says Luca Mezossy-Dona

If you could go back to when you started work, what career advice would you give to your younger self?

Beyond the traditional advice, I would highly recommend gaining international experience. The earlier, the better: it broadens your horizons, offers new perspectives on similar challenges, and helps you build a diverse network both personally and professionally.

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