Stories of Women Leaders in Energy: Ms Irina Țerigradean

Irina Ţerigradean holds the position of Deputy Head of Policy Implementation and Monitoring Department at the Energy Efficiency Agency of the Republic of Moldova, where she is responsible for ensuring the process of elaboration and substantiation of policy documents in the field of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, as well as the process of monitoring their implementation, including the collection of necessary information.

A licensed engineer and mother of two, Ms Ţerigradean still finds time for professional development and education. She is doing her MA studies in Public Administration and believes that her children benefit from having a happy, fulfilled mother, who can act as a role model for them. “I am grateful for everything I have. I know I still have to work and improve myself, therefore I persevere. Every day we must strive to be better than the day before, to be a better version of ourselves.”

Irina advocates for professional equality, calling on young women to put their fears aside and to “have the necessary courage and confidence that they will succeed in their endeavours. There are no fields in which a woman cannot be successful. If you put in the effort, the results won't be long in coming. The energy domain is as complex as it is interesting. As someone working in the energy field, and even as a student in the energy faculty, it becomes clear that this field is not for the faint of heart. It takes knowledge, will and perseverance, an active spirit, but also helps you to come up with intelligent solutions.”

Irina is one of those fortunate enough to take pleasure in their work. “Professionally, the biggest achievement is that my work brings me pleasure. I feel important, and I know that I have a special role in the evolution of the energy sector in my country. The Republic of Moldova is 75% dependent on imported energy sources, and the Energy Efficiency Agency has an important role to play in implementing state policy in the fields of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. All those who are employed in our country’s energy sector influence in some way or another the progress and development of our country, but also the provision of national energy security.” She finds inspiration in her colleagues working in the field, whose continuous work and efforts contribute to the development of the energy sector of the Republic of Moldova.

When asked what she would say to young woman Irina Ţerigradean at the outset of her career, Irina answers “Good luck my dear, believe in yourself, work hard and you will succeed! And may your achievements make you happy!”