Netra Walawalkar, Vice President – India Operations, Customized Energy Solutions
My Journey
The India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA) was founded in 2012 with a vision to make India a global hub for R&D, manufacturing, and adoption of advanced energy storage, e-mobility, and green hydrogen technologies. Over the years, we have played a crucial role in accelerating the development of the sector by working with policymakers, industry leaders, and all the stakeholders.
My journey in the energy sector spans 18 years, with the last 12 years focused on sustainability and renewable energy. As a founding member of Customized Energy Solutions’ India operations, I have worked closely with commercial and industrial consumers, helping them understand central & state level policies, technology, cost-benefit analysis and risks while strategizing their renewable energy roadmap and handholding the implementation. Customized Energy Solutions is an energy consulting & services company.
My Inspiration
Being part of the energy sector, working on sustainability was natural to me. What truly inspired me to enter the sustainability sector was the potential to drive change at a systemic level—reducing carbon footprints, optimizing energy costs, and supporting the transition to cleaner alternatives. Through initiatives like Women in Energy at IESA, I have been working to improve gender participation in the clean energy and e-mobility space, ensuring that women play an active role in this transformation.
Challenges as a Woman Leader & How I Overcame Them
The energy industry has traditionally been male-dominated, and early in my career, gaining credibility and ensuring my voice was heard were challenges. Breaking into leadership roles meant proving myself repeatedly, not just through expertise but through consistent execution and results.
Luckily I did not face many challenges as CES culture has been supportive and encouraging. I have observed that some people take time to feel comfortable engaging with a woman leader, or discussions are directed towards male colleagues, even when I am leading the conversation. Now this required a combination of confidence, strategic communication, and persistence. I made sure to assert my presence, lead with data-driven insights, and engage in direct conversations to build rapport. By fostering an inclusive and open discussion environment, I have been able to shift mindsets and establish credibility in these spaces.
Building strong networks and support systems has been crucial in overcoming some of the barriers. The Women in Energy initiative at IESA is an effort to create a more inclusive and supportive ecosystem for women professionals in the sector, so they do not face the same struggles alone.
Future of Sustainable Mobility & Women’s Role
The future of sustainable energy and clean mobility is incredibly promising, with energy storage becoming an integral part of renewable energy integration.
Women have a pivotal role to play in this transformation—not just as consumers but as leaders, innovators, and policymakers shaping the industry. Encouraging STEM education, providing leadership opportunities, and promoting entrepreneurship in clean energy will be key to ensuring women’s contributions are recognized and amplified. We are committed to supporting women professionals through our initiatives.
Advice to Young Women in Green Energy & E-Mobility
- Believe in your expertise and continuously upskill – The energy industry is evolving rapidly, so staying updated on new technologies, policies, and market trends is crucial.
- Build strong networks and seek mentors – Surrounding yourself with inspiring leaders and learning from their experiences can open up new opportunities.
- Focus on impact-driven work – The sustainability sector is not just about business; it is about creating a positive impact on the environment and society.
As the industry moves toward a more sustainable and inclusive future, I strongly encourage young women to step forward and lead the change towards a sustainable future.