At the 2024 edition of Solar & Storage Live España Solar&StorageXtra chatted to Sanda Greab, Manager for SolarGrafic.
Sanda discussed the need for better diversity and inclusion in the industry, the growing demand for trained professionals, and the challenges of solar panel maintenance and recycling.
Interview with Sanda Greab, Manager for SolarGrafic
“No matter how much theory someone learns, true understanding comes from hands-on work.”
Xtra: What is SolarGrafic and the Solar Academy’s mission?
Sanda: At SolarGrafic and the Solar Academy, our mission is to prepare individuals for integration into the industry. There is a clear demand for installers, and everywhere we go, we hear the same concern: there is a shortage of qualified professionals.
Part of the problem lies with institutions, as until recently, there were no specialised courses in photovoltaic and renewable energy. We need trained professionals, but there hasn’t been a structured place to provide that training.
That’s why we created the Solar Academy – to address this gap.
We work with a diverse team and ensure they receive proper preparation. The first step is safety training, specifically in labour risk prevention. We collaborate with the Forintec Training Centre, which handles all aspects of workplace safety.
However, practical experience is crucial. No matter how much theory someone learns, true understanding comes from hands-on work. Our next project involves working hands-on with solar structures from manufacturers like Schletter and Selec, which need to be assembled in a specific way.
Xtra: How do you think the industry, particularly for installers, could improve?
Sanda: There is still a lot of work to do, but the landscape is evolving. We are seeing more and more women entering the field.
Of course, there have always been female directors in large companies, but now we’re also seeing more women as installers, engineers, and technicians, excelling in their roles.
We need better representation of women in the industry. Encouraging companies to support women in the field is essential. If businesses were given incentives – through tax benefits or subsidies – for inclusivity, it could make a real difference.
Representation is also key. Women from diverse backgrounds need visibility as role models in the sector. Another important issue is wage equity and transparency. Salary equality should be non-negotiable.
Why should a woman earn less than a man for doing the same job? There must be fairness and clarity in pay structures.
We are committed to inclusion and diversity, working with people of all ages and backgrounds. For example, we have team members aged 55–57 actively working with us.
Last year, we welcomed people from Ukraine, some of whom are now permanent employees. We believe in fostering diversity – it shouldn’t be about “you” or “me” but about working together.
Xtra: What are some challenges that SolarGrafic and Solar Academy have faced in their projects?
Sanda: The first challenge, following from my previous point, is for women to be taken seriously and treated equally. Inclusion and diversity remain significant challenges, and it’s something we should discuss further.
Another challenge is raising awareness about the full scope of solar panel projects. Everyone understands the need for installation, but maintenance and cleaning are often overlooked – they’re essential for long-term efficiency. However, many people still don’t see the necessity of these services.
Another major challenge on the horizon is solar panel recycling. In the coming years, the first generation of installed solar panels will reach the end of their lifespan. Panels last about 20–25 years, but what happens after that?
We are not currently prepared for large-scale solar panel recycling. As of now, there is no solar panel recycling plant in Catalonia, though one will be needed. We are developing a project to secure governmental support and establish a recycling plant.
Xtra: What are the benefits of attending Solar & Storage Live in Barcelona?
Sanda: Honestly, it has been a pleasant surprise. We made a last-minute decision – just two or three weeks ago – to attend.
At this event we’ve made some valuable contacts and identified great new opportunities for collaboration. Plus, this event’s international scope has opened doors for us beyond Spain, which is incredibly beneficial.
[This interview has been translated from Spanish into English.]
With the London edition of Solar & Storage Live only weeks away, don’t forget to register for your free ticket and join us at the London ExCeL from 2-3 April 2025 – or find a Solar & Storage Live event closer to home.
