Meet Faneva, a renewable energy engineer whose work intersects innovation and public service. She is committed to energy transition, helping to shape a future where technology serves both local territories and global sustainability;
Hi Faneva! We are delighted to welcome you to this episode of Words That Count
Thank you for the warm welcome. I am happy to share my story and contribute to this work.
To start, who is Faneva?
My full name is Fanevamampiandra Herinirina. I am originally from Madagascar but currently living and working in France. Professionally, I am an engineer specializing in access to electricity, innovation, and renewable energy. I work as an Innovation Officer in the field of energy and network at SIEL-TE, Territoire d’énergie Loire.
In my daily work, I develop innovative projects and support local authorities in the Loire department to promote energy transition and digital development. For instance, I am involved in the AEGIR project, a European project focused on energy renovation. We use prefabricated building components, which are elements manufactured off-site in advance, to renovate or upgrade buildings for better energy performance. To test these solutions, we use the “Résidence Astrée” in Boën-sur-Lignon as a demonstration site to showcase real conditions in France. This project aims to accelerate energy transition in the area by integrating renewable energy solutions coupled with advanced energy management.
I also work in the field of Electrical flexibility as coordinator of the CUBE Flex competition. In 2025, the SIEL-TE won third place in the “Eco watt Rouge” category.
To support the development of smart and sustainable territories, I design Internet of Things (IoT) use cases for rural communities. Some of the cases I have built include air quality, electricity, and water consumption metering and monitoring. I also developed a solar carport combined with an electrical vehicles charging station and a battery storage system.
How did you end up working in the field of renewable energy innovation?
I grew up in a country where only 15% of the population has access to electricity. During my childhood, the energy inequality was not just a statistic to me, but it was my daily reality. Sometimes, I used the candlelight to revise my lessons and to do my homework. This situation deeply affected me. I realised that it was not just a personal struggle, but a clear sign of the systemic barriers for developing countries like Madagascar.
This experience pushed me to pursue my studies in energy and innovation. I wanted to transform my childhood challenge into a purpose to provide sustainable and equitable energy solutions for all, especially for women and children. My academic journey reflects this commitment.
I earned a Master’s degree in Renewable Energy from the University of Sfax in Tunisia. This was followed by a Master’s in Materials Physics from Phelma-Grenoble INP and an additional degree in Law, Economics, and Management. Here, I specialized in Energy Economics and Sustainable Development.
In 2021, I started a PhD program between the Paris Electrical Engineering Laboratory and the University of Sherbrooke in Canada. My research focused on the fabrication and characterization of high-efficiency solar cells. During this time, I co-founded Fianaralab, an international solidarity association that promotes practical education and energy innovation for developing countries.
At the end of 2022, I took the hard decision to leave my PhD program and fully focus on Fianaralab. Shortly after that decision, I joined the SIEL-TE 42 in 2023 as an Innovation Officer.
As you can see, I have an international career path: from Madagascar to France, via Tunisia, Burundi, and Canada. My long-term goal is to contribute to African energy progress.
What are some of the challenges you faced along this career journey in renewable energy innovation?
One of my main challenges has been to integrate into different cultural and academic environments while maintaining a high level of excellence. Moving from Madagascar to Tunisia, then to North America and Europe, required great adaptability and resilience.
Additionally, I work in a highly technical field in which women are underrepresented. It requires us to work hard and to develop strong leadership to prove that we have a central place in the energy transition and digital development industry.
How are you inspired to move forward amidst these challenges?
Grewing up with a lack of electricity inspires me to move forward. I believe that sustainable energy access is a human right. Because of that, I want to contribute to energy equity in Africa through renewable energy, innovation, and smart infrastructure. I intend to turn my childhood personal challenges into a purpose to have a positive impact around me.
Let us talk about some of the most prestigious moments you have had in your career journey
Winner of the Women’s Energy In Transition 2025 prize, by Dalkia.
Selected as one of the 10 Laureates for the Women In Africa Young Leaders 2023 program from 6,000 applications.
I have also won some scholarships, including Mitacs Globalink-Canada (2021), MIC Erasmus+ (2019), excellence scholarship from the Malagasy and Tunisian governments (2013-2019).
With Fianaralab, I have set up several programs, such as the PV Fianara summer school. I have also led the development of an innovative solar pump for the 30,000 students in Fianarantsoa, Madagascar.
Since 2021, I have contributed to training around 500 young people in the field of energy in Burundi, Madagascar, and Burkina Faso.
I am also a volunteer member of several organizations, for example, Je m’engage pour l’Afrique, Physique sans frontière, and Ikala stem Madagascar.
Who are you outside of your work?
Outside of work, I have a dynamic life. I am deeply passionate about volunteering, traveling, and intercultural exchanges. These allow me to keep my feet on the ground and to connect to the realities of life. I describe myself as a ‘sunny’ person; I love to share, whether it is knowledge or positive energy.
What is your favorite quote?“Solidarity in adversity is a key to success” ~ Anonymous.
What are your words of encouragement for a young girl interested in renewable energy innovation?
Never let your current circumstances define the limit of your dreams. Believe in your potential, stay curious, and remember that you belong where you want to be.
Thank you, Faneva, for taking the time to share your story with us. We are proud of the work you are doing and look forward to learning more about your success in the future.
