The Institute for European Energy and Climate Policy (IEECP) is a non-profit, independent research organization. It focuses on science-based climate change mitigation, energy efficiency and renewable energy policy while generating and disseminating scientific knowledge.
In RE-WITCH, IEECP leads on communication and dissemination. In addition, IEECP collaborates with IVL and PNO on Business modelling, standardization, and Exploitation activities. IEECP will collaborate with project partners to streamline the solutions to standards compliance, submit a workshop proposal to the relevant technical committees, and propose policy recommendations to overcome the barriers to the implementation and market uptake of RE-WITCH solutions.
What do you like in this project? What do you find most important?
All parts of the project are important and interconnected. The project includes multiple steps of the technology development process for absorption and adsorption chillers, from conceptualization, design, modeling and simulation, implementation, monitoring and testing, standardization, and business modeling to ensure market deployment.
Tell us a bit about your background.
I studied mechanical engineering as an undergraduate and then pursued a PhD in energy engineering focusing on heat integration. I have experience in industrial energy efficiency, conducting energy audits, and implementing solutions to reduce overall energy demand. I also have experience in decarbonization of heating systems as I worked on operational R&D projects, developing tools for designing, simulating, and optimizing heating and cooling systems.
What brought you into this field? How did you get interest in STEM?
I always wanted to work on the energy transition from the technical side, as climate change is probably the biggest challenge facing our generation.
What were some of the challenges you faced as a woman in STEM?
I was lucky to be in several companies and institutions that empower women, and I never encountered any challenges just because I am a woman.
If you’ve ever faced uncertainty about whether you belonged in a STEM field, how did you tackle that?
Inspiration. I am glad that I am always surrounded by inspiring people in STEM, and I look up to their achievements, leadership, and dedication. Perseverance is also key to overcoming some challenges.
Any advice / message for young women in highschool? Why is our sector a great one?
Dream big in whatever you like to do and chase that dream. The energy sector is a key sector directly impacting the environment and directly affecting us all. It is vital to be part of this transition so we can reach our climate targets.
What are your hopes for the future of women in STEM (in regards to opportunities, stereotypes, etc.)?
Equal opportunities: My hope for the future of women in STEM is that they continue having equal opportunities in their education and careers.
Did you have a mentor or inspiration person?
I was always inspired by Marie Curie, the first woman ever to win a Nobel prize in Physics and the first person ever to win two.
See our infographics on women in science/heating and cooling and the energy sectors here.
