TEAM POWER
ALKA CHAUHAN ALKA CHAUHAN
“Empowered women empower women. Together, we can break barriers and drive the change needed for a sustainable future.”
With over 15 years of experience in the energy sector, I currently lead marketing and communication for First Solar in India. In this role, I have had the privilege of spearheading initiatives that promote sustainable energy solutions, striving to make a meaningful impact in our transition to a greener future.
Throughout my career, I have been deeply passionate about innovation in renewable technologies and the advocacy for diversity and inclusion within our industry. I firmly believe that the future of energy is rooted in collaboration and creativity. It is incredibly inspiring to work alongside a team of talented individuals who share this vision and are dedicated to driving positive change
Together, we are not just shaping the future of energy; we are fostering an environment where diverse voices are heard and valued, ultimately leading to more effective and sustainable solutions I am excited about what lies ahead as we continue this journey, united in our commitment to a cleaner, more inclusive energy landscape
Dr. Dr.ANUPAMAA S. CHAVAN ANUPAMAA S. CHAVAN
“As a woman in academia, I am committed to driving the adoption of solar energy solutions, empowering communities to create their own sustainable energy future.”
I, Dr Anupamaa Chavan, have been an academician for over three decades, currently serving as an Associate Professor in Marketing & Retail at the Anil Surendra Modi School of Commerce, NMIMS University I have been awarded as BEST TEACHER by Government of Maharashtra in the year 2010-11 My research, which began in 2007, focuses on solar off-grid applications I have developed strategies to promote solar energy products such as solar water heaters, solar streetlights, solar LED lights, and solar inverters As part of my research, I travelled to six cities across India and personally interviewed 1,056 respondents, including both institutional and domestic buyers/prospects I was pleasantly surprised by their positive attitude and willingness to try these products In my thesis, I proposed strategies that could help marketers accelerate the adoption of solar off grid applications I have presented my research at several conferences, including at IIM Bangalore, and published numerous papers on solar energy in both national and international journals, including ABDC-ranked journals. Two of my papers on solar off grid applications were recognized as Best Paper in Marketing at national conferences. I am deeply optimistic about the potential of solar energy to help us achieve energy independence. While it may not fully replace grid power initially, it can certainly complement it and help reduce peak hour deficits by allowing us to generate our own energy, even if only to some extent.
MONIKA SHEKHAR MONIKA SHEKHAR
“A purpose-driven industry needs leaders who are fueled not by fame or accolades, but by a genuine passion that trickles down to individuals, uplifts communities & empowers the entire nation. Sustainability is one such purpose.”
A career defined by the passion for storytelling, creative thinking, and ideas that make an impact, Monika brings over a decade of experience in Advertising, Marketing, and Brand Communication Having started her career at one of the World’s Top Advertising Agency, she has worked on global brands across various industries, gaining a deep understanding of how to build and grow impactful brands
In recent years, Monika discovered her passion for Sustainability, which has shaped her both professionally and personally She has worked with leading solar brands such as GoodWe and is currently the Marketing Leader for India at Hoymiles, a global leader in solar technology Monika approaches complex challenges with clarity and purpose, driving meaningful results in the clean energy sector
RITA BHALALA RITA BHALALA
“Just as women give life, they’re empowering India’s solar future. Let’s keep the momentum alive and make clean energy our new way of life.”
Rita Bhalala, Director of Krivi Energy, has been a driving force in the company ’ s journey from a solar trading business to a leading player in solar manufacturing and EPC solutions, contributing to India’s renewable energy ambitions
She believes India’s goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030 is more than a milestone it’s a collective mission that demands ongoing efforts from businesses, policymakers, and individuals alike
"We’ve built strong momentum Now, let’s keep pushing forward to power every home, factory, and city with clean, sustainable energy "
SHIKHA UPADHAYAY SHIKHA UPADHAYAY
“If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, then you are an excellent leader.”
Shikha Upadhayay has recently joined Mahindra Susten and Mahindra TEQO as the Head of Marketing and Branding, where she leads strategic communication initiatives and strengthens brand positioning in the renewable energy sector.
With over 12 years of experience in renewable and clean energy, she possesses a comprehensive understanding of the industry, spanning manufacturing to project development and her expertise includes corporate communications, marketing, branding, public relations, stakeholder engagement, CSR, reputation management, crisis communication, and policy advocacy
Throughout her career, Shikha has collaborated with industry leaders like Ayana Renewable Power, Longi, and REC Solar, driving market differentiation and strengthening the presence of solar PV manufacturers and service providers across the APAC region
An alumna of IMT with master’s degree in English Literature, she is a strong advocate of green and alternative energy with a commitment to accelerating the global energy transition and fostering a low-carbon future
SWARALIPI MAITY SWARALIPI MAITY
“Her advice to future leaders in solar: “Stay curious, be execution-focused, and collaborate with purpose. The renewable energy sector needs leaders who are solution-driven and committed to long-term impact.”
Swaralipi Maity is a seasoned professional in the renewable energy space with rich experience in business development, project management, and strategic partnerships. Currently serving as the Executive Director at Wattpower Systems Pvt. Ltd., she has been leading the company ’ s expansion in India’s solar market since January 2023. Her role involves driving operational growth, enhancing stakeholder engagement, and strengthening the company ’ s position as a reliable player in the clean energy sector.
Before joining Wattpower, she held leadership roles at Sukhbir Agro Energy Ltd , Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd , and SunSource Energy She has successfully led large-scale solar projects, contributed to policy implementation, and shaped go-to-market strategies, making a significant contribution to the adoption of solar solutions across the government and private sectors
Swaralipi’s work has positively impacted India’s solar ecosystem by promoting innovation, increasing accessibility, and building sustainable business models She is a strong advocate for gender diversity in energy and believes in empowering more women to take up leadership roles
UPASANA BORUAH UPASANA BORUAH
“Leadership is not just about driving change — it’s about inspiring others to believe in it. In renewable energy, we have the power to fuel both progress and purpose.”
Upasana Boruah is an accomplished leader in the renewable energy sector, recognized among India’s Top 40 Under 40 Renewable Energy Leaders (2022) and awarded the Women in New Energy Award (2023). With over a decade of expertise in business development, sales, corporate communications, and stakeholder engagement, she has played a pivotal role in driving innovation and sustainable growth.
Currently serving as Manager – Business Development and Corporate Communications at FIMER, Upasana leads marketing and communications across India, the SAARC region (Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh), and key Asian markets, while also spearheading global branding efforts for FIMER’s Utility Sector.
Her career spans leading organizations like REC, Tata BP Solar, and Godrej, where she built strong client relationships and drove market expansion Known for her strategic mindset and collaborative approach, she continues to champion clean energy adoption, industry partnerships, and greater diversity in the sector
VINEELA BAVINENI VINEELA BAVINENI
“Lead to empower, learn to evolve and work to inspire”
Vineela, an alumna of IIM Kozhikode, brings nine years of expertise in corporate finance, driving impactful investments in the clean energy sector She began her career as a Project Finance Analyst at IDFC Bank before advancing to Investment Associate at Zephyr Peacock, a prominent emerging markets investment firm
At Amplus Solar, she played a key role in the strategic acquisition of Acme’s assets, contributing to the company ' s significant growth. Currently, at Ayana, she leads the fundraising process and independently manages a 1 GWp acquired portfolio, showcasing exceptional leadership and financial acumen
Beyond clean energy, Vineela has a strong understanding of infrastructure development across sectors such as healthcare, transportation, and logistics, positioning her as a versatile and strategic leader.
RIA JAIN RIA JAIN
“Great leaders don’t just build successful teams—they inspire a vision, empower people, and drive meaningful change.”
Ria Jain is a Chartered Accountant with a passion for accounts, numbers and music With eight years of experience in audit, finance, and accounts, she has worked across three organizations and have been with Ayana Renewable Power Private Limited for the past 2 5 years
At Ayana, she leads a team of seven, enhancing leadership skills and deepening her understanding of people management an organization's most valuable asset. Working closely with the CFO and CEO provided her with invaluable insights into top management’s vision, fostering the professional growth and strategic thinking.
Ria's experience in the renewable energy sector has instilled a strong sense of responsibility in her towards sustainability and environmental stewardship.
For future leaders in the solar and financial sectors, she emphasizes the importance of financial agility and sustainability.
Renewable energy projects require significant investment, making it crucial to understand innovative funding models and cost-effective accounting strategies. Innovation and persistence drive progress in solar energy, and as a Chartered Accountant, Ria's goal is to develop financial strategies that make these projects both scalable and sustainable, ensuring a successful transition to clean energy.
GANAVI CHINNAIAH GANAVI CHINNAIAH
“Leadership is responsibility and inspiration. At Ayana, my journey is driven by efficiency and balance.”
Ganavi Chinnaiah works as the Senior Manager – CEO’s Office at Ayana Renewable Power, before which she worked at inmobi as a HR Business partner for over 7 years. As one of the few women who have been with the company since its inception, she has been instrumental in shaping its growth from day one. She efficiently oversees the CEO’s Office, Events, and Administration, ensuring seamless operations.
Notably, Ganavi also played a key role in the setting up of the office first office workspace from scratch With a unique ability to handle challenges with precision and poise, Ganavi is more than just a manager she’s an inspiration Her strong sense of independence, humility, and leadership makes her a role model for young women, showing that success is about more than just personal growth it’s about uplifting others along the way Though she prefers to stay behind the scenes, her impact is undeniable she is a silent force driving meaningful change, consistently
AVANTIKA MISHRA AVANTIKA MISHRA
“Women in the RE sector are paving the way for a future where sustainability is the standard, not the exception.”
Avantika Mishra is M tech in Renewable Energy and is a TERI Alumina, In Ayana, she manages the CEO’s Office and leads Corporate Communications In these dual roles, she translates CEO's vision and strategic initiatives into actionable plans and drives their successful implementation across the organization Her expertise extends to navigating external regulatory and policy developments, addressing complex regulatory landscapes and working closely with the management team to resolve critical project challenges throughout the project lifecycle
Since joining Ayana in its early stages, Avantika has been instrumental in streamlining processes and resolving critical challenges
With 8 years of experience in RE sector, Avantika has seen the transformative power of this sector and she believes that leadership is defined not by titles but by the influence and change one creates.
REMYA RAJU REMYA RAJU
“Leadership is about inspiring others, guiding growth, and working together towards a common goal for lasting success.”
Remya Raju is an HR professional with over 11 years of experience and a master’s degree in business management (Human Resources) As Manager – HR at Ayana for the past four years, she has played a key role in aligning HR strategies with business goals, driving growth in the renewable energy sector
Her expertise in talent acquisition, compensation, and organizational development has been instrumental in building high-performing teams and enhancing employee engagement By focusing on talent management and development, she has helped Ayana attract and retain top talent to support its clean energy mission
Strong leadership shapes workplace culture and drives success. By fostering a positive environment and strategic decision-making, leaders can build resilient organizations poised for long-term impact.
PRERNA KUMARI PRERNA KUMARI
“A good leader takes a little more than his share of the blame, a little less than his share of the credit.”
Prerna Kumari, is a certified IMS Internal Auditor (ISO 9001:2015, 14001:2015, 45001:2018) and Lead Auditor (ISO 9001:2015), with over four years of experience in the renewable energy sector She began her career at Tata Power Solar Systems Limited in the Quality department, progressing to Lead Engineer, and later joining Ayana Renewable Power Private Limited, serving as a Senior Executive in QHSE & CSR
Prerna has implemented quality control measures that improved efficiency, met stringent quality standards, and reduced defects By fostering strong relationships with suppliers and teams, she streamlined material movement, ensuring timely project completion
Her expertise includes Fixed Tilt, Moving Tracker, Floating Solar, Battery Energy Storage Systems, and ongoing work in Hybrid and Wind Power projects
" To future leaders, I stress the value of humility true leadership is about recognizing team efforts and sharing success. "
AMITA BAGGA AMITA BAGGA
“Leadership taught me to own my failures. After a tough day, I rise stronger —not because I forget the setbacks, but because I carry forward the lessons they taught me.”
Amita Bagga is the Director of Business Development at SMA Global Competence Center, bringing over 18 years of cross-industry leadership experience across GE Capital, IBM, and Kyndryl At SMA Solar Technology, she leads the India-based Global Competence Center, driving operational excellence, digital transformation, and capability building to support global business goals
A firm believer in purpose-driven leadership, Amita is passionate about empowering people, fostering innovation, and contributing to a sustainable, climate-friendly energy future Her strategic vision and people-first approach continue to shape impactful outcomes for the clean energy transition
ANITA VIRNAVE ANITA VIRNAVE
“True leadership is about connecting with people on a deeper level, using emotional intelligence to empower women, embrace diversity, and create a collaborative global workforce.”
Anita Virnave is a seasoned HR leader with over 17 years of experience in Human Resource Management With a Master’s degree in HR & Marketing from AMITY University, she began her career in Sales at Kotak Mahindra Bank, gaining key business insights before transitioning to HR Anita has since led impactful roles at Doshion Veolia and SMA Solar India, where she has been instrumental in shaping HR strategies, talent acquisition, and employee engagement
Currently part of SMA Solar India’s Global Capability Centre, Anita plays a strategic role in global talent management and workforce diversity Known for her transformational leadership style built on Trust, Transparency, and Target, she continues to drive people-first initiatives that align talent with business growth