Monalisa Dimalanta

WOMEN WE ADMIRE

Chairperson

National Renewable Energy Board (Philippines)

Which technology has the potential to disrupt the current status quo in your specific field of work?

Decentralization of energy systems has the most potential for positive disruption, to my mind. This can be further accelerated by the adoption of digital solutions in traditionally centralized aspects of energy delivery.

What is your vision for the future of energy?

The future of energy cannot be divorced from the future of humanity: our vision for the world's future can only be realized and is very much influenced by the choices we make today on how we harness the energy resources available to us. We need to always take the long view when it comes to issues concerning energy utilization, there is no other way if we want a safer, cleaner, better world for our children.

What exciting project are you working on currently?

This is an exciting time for the Philippine energy sector as we craft re-define our National Renewable Energy Plan. This roadmap presents us with an opportunity to take bigger and bolder steps to revive our renewable energy sector and truly making RE and indigenous energy at the core of our energy future.

What would you have liked to know when you began your career in energy? Please share details to aid young women who are starting their careers in energy now.

One piece of advice would be not to feel intimidated by all the science and math involved in this field! Embrace the unknown and acknowledge that you need to ask questions at the early stages of your career. This is the best time to learn and just absorb all the knowledge that comes your way. Being new in the field gives you the perfect excuse, so to speak, to come in as well with a fresh (sometimes unusual!) perspective.

If invited to speak in an energy event, what are the topics you would plan to speak about?

Each nation's obligation to design their respective energy transition pathways