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Lighting the Path to a Sustainable Palestine

Empowering Women, Advancing Sustainability

In the hills of Jenin Governorate, where energy insecurity persists despite abundant sunlight, a powerful initiative is reshaping communities—through education, empowerment, and clean energy. The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) – Palestine Chapter, in partnership with the GROW Project, implemented a transformative campaign: “Empowering Female Engineers through Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Awareness.”

Led by Eng. Abdelnaser Dwaikat as President of AEE Palestine Chapter, and with strategic Partnership of Grow represented by Ms. Safa Madi, Team Leader of GROW, the project trained 30 female engineers as Renewable Energy (RE) and Energy Efficiency (EE) ambassadors to raise awareness in rural communities.

Local Action, Real Results

Through 62 awareness sessions in five villages (Al-Taybeh, Seilat Al Harthiyeh, Ti’inik, Zububa, and Rommaneh), the campaign achieved:

  • 2,400 LED lights distributed
  • 392 community members reached, 92% women
  • 41,361 kWh saved in two months—equal to powering 65 homes annually
  • $50,000 in projected yearly savings
  • 30,392 kg CO₂ emissions avoided, equivalent to 1,390 trees planted

This initiative created real environmental impact while positioning Palestinian women at the center of sustainability efforts.

Leadership That Drives Change:

A nationally recognized development expert, Ms. Safa Madi brings over two decades of experience in policy advocacy, economic development, and gender empowerment. As former Executive Director of the Palestinian Information Technology Association (PITA) and current Chairwoman of the Palestine Internet Society, she has championed initiatives that bridge innovation and inclusion.

At the helm of the GROW Project, Ms. Madi has been instrumental in mainstreaming gender equity across sectors—from banking and trade to microfinance and now, renewable energy. Her leadership ensured this campaign was not just about reducing energy consumption—it was about empowering women to lead the energy transition.

“Empowering women in energy means unleashing a force for sustainable development. Women bring knowledge, empathy, and credibility. When they lead, transformation follows.” — Ms. Safa Madi, Team Leader – GROW Project

Bridging Knowledge and Practice:

Eng. Issam Abu Khaizran, a  technical energy and agro business expert, who helped craft training content and personally coached the ambassadors—translating technical concepts into community-friendly knowledge. Their combined leadership was vital to the success of the outreach effort. On the technical front, Eng. Safa Helan, Renewable Energy Officer at GROW, played a key role in coordinating implementation, ensuring that the campaign maintained both scientific accuracy and gender inclusivity.

Voices from the Field: Empowered Engineers Reflect

“The training gave me confidence in communicating RE concepts and working directly with communities.” — Eng. Sara Abed

“Thanks to AEE and GROW, I now see how technical knowledge can be a tool for change.” — Eng. Batoul Zoghari

“The blend of technical depth and interactive learning was empowering.” — Eng. Anhar Abuquthila

“It exceeded expectations—I’m inspired to attend more programs like this.” — Eng. Majdal Alahmad

Looking Ahead: AEE’s Vision for Inclusive Sustainability

This successful campaign is just the beginning. AEE Palestine, in partnership with GROW, is preparing to:

  • Expand the Ambassador Model to new regions
  • Launch energy education in schools and youth centers
  • Support women-led green startups
  • Advocate for inclusive clean energy policies

“When women lead in sustainability, we don’t just light homes—we light futures.” — Eng. Abdelnaser H. Dwaikat, President, AEE Palestine

About AEE Palestine Chapter

Established in 2016, the AEE Palestine Chapter is part of the global Association of Energy Engineers, headquartered in the United States. The chapter was created to support Palestine’s transition toward a clean, efficient, and sustainable energy future while cultivating a new generation of certified energy professionals.

AEE Palestine launched the country’s first student chapter at An-Najah National University, followed by three additional university-based student chapters across the West Bank. These hubs give students access to global certifications, technical training, mentorship, and hands-on experience with real-world energy projects.

In 2021, the chapter also established the Palestinian section of CWEEL – the Council on Women in Energy & Environmental Leadership, a global AEE initiative promoting women’s leadership, equity, and mentorship in the energy and environmental sectors.

Operating under AEE’s global mission—to advance energy efficiency and sustainability worldwide—the Palestine Chapter tailors its programs to fit local challenges and opportunities. Through outreach campaigns, technical trainings, and advocacy efforts, AEE Palestine has become a driving force in sustainable development and energy awareness in the region. Its impact has been recognized through multiple international awards and distinctions honoring excellence in education, innovation, and community engagement.