‘Never underestimate the impact you can have, whatever your role’

Solar energy is often discussed through the lens of technology, investment, and decarbonisation targets. While these are all essential, I believe we also need to recognize something equally important: universal access to clean energy depends on inclusion. Diverse perspectives lead to solutions that better reflect the realities of the communities we serve and create more sustainable outcomes.

At SolarAid, we see every day how access to solar energy transforms lives. It provides a safe, sustainable and affordable alternative to toxic, dangerous sources of light, reducing fire risks and improving health by cutting indoor air pollution. Businesses can extend their opening hours, helping people earn more income; children can study after dark, and healthcare workers can provide better services.

For women and girls in rural sub-Saharan Africa, who are disproportionately affected by energy poverty, solar creates opportunities to earn an income, contribute to the local economy, improve educational outcomes and increase personal safety. When we talk about clean energy, these are the human stories that remind us what success really looks like.

The power of a single light

Last year, I visited the remote community of Kasakula in Malawi, where Solar Home System installations were taking place. In the pitch darkness after sunset, I relied on my phone torch to find my way.

Yet as I walked through the village, I saw homes illuminated by solar power. Children were playing, neighbours were chatting, and the local shop was busy with customers. It struck me that light brings much more than visibility. It creates opportunity and breathes life into communities after dark.

One local resident, Kennedy, told me that solar power allows him to listen to local news and music, helping him stay connected. Nearby, two healthcare workers shared a simple but powerful reflection: “How can you put in a catheter or IV without light?” It’s a powerful reminder of what we take for granted.

Solar as a driver of resilience

The solar industry has a vital role to play in reducing inequality and building more resilient communities by expanding access to clean, affordable energy.

Much of the commercial sector understandably focuses on grid-connected or higher-income markets. This is where partnerships with organizations like SolarAid help bridge the gap, reaching off-grid and underserved communities that might otherwise be left behind.

By innovating solar solutions and enabling local distribution models, we help households reduce their reliance on costly, polluting fuels while improving education, health, and economic opportunity. In regions such as sub-Saharan Africa, where climate change is intensifying droughts and floods that threaten agriculture-based livelihoods, access to solar also strengthens climate and economic resilience, enabling communities to generate income and build more secure futures.

Empowering women multiplies impact

Women are among the most important change-makers in overcoming energy poverty.

At SolarAid, we support women at every level, from leadership across our UK and regional teams to grassroots entrepreneurship. One example is our Mayi Wala programme in Malawi, which nurtures female solar entrepreneurs.

Many women in sub-Saharan Africa face significant barriers to starting businesses and accessing finance. By providing training, ongoing support and access to capital, we see more women joining our network every year. They are expanding access to clean, affordable solar products while becoming trusted business leaders and role models within their communities.

When women receive the right support, solar adoption increases, livelihoods improve, and entire communities benefit.

Leadership through partnership

Working in a purpose-driven sector is incredibly rewarding because the impact is tangible. Every partnership we build and every supporter we engage has the potential to create lasting change. Seeing someone switch on a light for the first time, or hearing how solar has transformed a family’s daily life, is a constant reminder of why this work matters.

One of the biggest leadership lessons I have learned is the importance of inspiring others through a shared mission. I see this not only within SolarAid but also in our strongest partnerships. When leaders are genuinely passionate about the purpose, that energy spreads throughout an organization and brings everyone along on the journey.

Meaningful change starts with partnerships built on shared purpose and aligned goals. Our vision is a world where everyone has access to affordable, clean energy, but achieving this requires collaboration across organisations, sectors and markets.

Leadership also means being open, sharing knowledge and enabling others to build on what works. Rather than gatekeeping our innovations, we openly share our energy access models with partners. Through initiatives such as REAL Programme Catalysts, developed with Moon and Easy Solar, innovative approaches are already being adapted and replicated across several African countries. This collaborative approach accelerates innovation, extends impact and brings universal energy access closer.

Building careers with purpose

What gives me hope is the growing recognition that clean energy is not only a climate solution but also a catalyst for improving health, education, livelihoods and opportunity. I am encouraged by the increasing number of businesses that want to use their profits, expertise, influence and resources to create meaningful social impact alongside commercial success, embedding this commitment into their culture.

To the next generation of professionals, I would simply say this: never underestimate the impact you can have, whatever your role. Purpose-driven careers are deeply fulfilling because they allow you to apply your skills to create real change. Build strong partnerships, stay focused on the long-term mission, and never lose sight of the people whose lives your work is helping to transform.

Lyndsay joined SolarAid in 2023 as Corporate Partnerships Manager, bringing over eight years of experience in the charity sector. Prior to this, she built a successful career in sales and exhibitions across a range of B2B industries. In her role, Lyndsay builds and strengthens partnerships with businesses that share SolarAid’s purpose and passion for transforming lives and communities through access to clean, safe energy. She is passionate about connecting organisations with meaningful opportunities to create lasting social impact, helping them make a real difference through their support.

Interested in joining Lindsay Dixon and other women industry leaders and experts at Women in Solar+ Europe? Find out more: www.wiseu.network