United Arab Emirates: In an award ceremony held during the World Future Energy Summit, the Middle East’s most promising future solar leaders have been selected by the Middle East Solar Industry Association (MESIA) and PwC as part of their joint Middle East Solar Pioneers Programme. The ten awarded individuals have been chosen based on four core criteria that have shown their expertise and experience in the solar industry based on their leadership, impact, innovation and long term vision goals.
The ten awarded pioneers will be given the opportunity to network and gain even higher exposure to the solar industry. Through technical workshops and highly facilitated scientific labs, they will gain a better understanding of the impact of solar power in the Middle East and receive the support and experience needed to further their careers.
“The 10 winners are all crème de la crème leaders. They have achieved a lot in a very short time. As a team, they are fantastic ambassadors for the work that MESIA is doing: helping grow the role of solar power across the Middle East. We are thrilled to be able to champion their work and to help them reach new heights Vahid Fotuhi, President of MESIA, said.
“Partnering with MESIA on this great initiative has been remarkable. Together, through the support we will provide for the young leaders and innovators, we will ensure that the region is better positioned to enjoy the benefits of solar technology in short to medium term,” Gus Schellekens, the leader of PwC’s Centre of Excellence for Renewable Energy, Cleantech and Sustainability in Abu Dhabi, said.
“With the world’s population set to reach 9 billion by 2050, the need to look for new sustainable sources of energy is inevitable.”
The selection of the top 10 pioneers was made by a panel of international judges that are drawn from across the Middle East and selected jointly by MESIA and PwC. The panel includes CEOs, UN dignitaries, and former Minsters.
The Middle East Solar Pioneers Programme provides a platform for leaders to gain widespread exposure and diligent support and mentorship. Running for 12 months, the programme will also provide personal development and technical support. Such support is delivered through free MESIA membership with access to labs and PwC’s training sessions as well as events and meetings.