Nevena Virijević, a civil engineer in a managerial position at Fortis Energy, is at the helm of one of the largest solar-battery projects in the region. In an interview for the Green Women’s Network of the Association RES Serbia, she talks about the role of women in energy, the power of teamwork, the concept of “Green Baseload” and the messages she sends to young girls who want to build a career in the green sector.
At Fortis Energy, you hold the position of Head of Project Development, and you received your education at the Faculty of Civil Engineering University of Belgrade. What motivated you to choose the Faculty of Civil Engineering and how did that choice shape your professional path towards renewable energy projects?
– I have always been better at natural sciences than social sciences, so after elementary school it was logical to enroll in the science-mathematics course at gymnasium. During high school, it became clear to me that I wanted to work as an engineer, so I enrolled in the Faculty of Civil Engineering, majoring in construction. Although it is one of the most demanding faculties of the University of Belgrade, I saw it as a challenge that I wanted to overcome.
The desire of most civil engineers, constructors, including myself, was to deal with the design and construction of bridges, high-rise buildings and similar facilities. However, I had the opportunity to enter the world of energy, specifically in the field of designing transmission lines and substations, facilities that, until that moment, I had not even paid attention to. I gladly took advantage of the opportunity, and very quickly fell in love with this area. I liked the dynamics and importance of energy facilities, and I found my professional direction in it. When the company I worked for focused on renewable energy projects, it was natural for my professional development to continue in that direction, first through the role of head designer, i.e. project manager, and then as a project manager. Today, in the position of Project Development Manager at Fortis Energy, I have continued to develop my career in the renewable energy sector, on projects that have a significant contribution to the energy transition.
How do you see the role of women in the renewable energy sector and infrastructure projects? Have you encountered any challenges in your career that are specific to women in this domain and how do you overcome them?
– I believe that the number of women both in engineering and in RES projects has increased significantly in recent years, and that the gender ratio is generally evenly distributed.
The role of women in this sector should not be a question of gender, but of knowledge, expertise and dedication to work. This is an area that requires teamwork, innovation and responsibility, and anyone who demonstrates these values has room to progress and contribute.
Throughout my career, I have not felt discrimination, on the contrary, I have always had the support of my mentors and managers, who were mostly men. This collaboration has helped me grow professionally and learn from the experience of people who have been in this sector for a long time. I believe that mutual respect and trust is the key to success, regardless of gender.
I believe that every successful project rests on a quality team, where competence, dedication and willingness to work together are appreciated, and it is in such an environment that I see the future of the RES sector.
Energoinvest Test Station, Sarajevo 2017
Previously, you were employed in the company Kodar, which is predominantly a contractor, and now you have moved to the ranks of investors. Is it better for a developer or an investor?
– It is difficult to say whether the position is better in one sector or the other, given that in both environments expertise is recognized and results are valued. It is important to point out that women are increasingly recognized in both performing and investment roles, and that the sector in which they work is less important than their ability to contribute to projects.
The experience gained in working for a contractor or developer is valuable, as it provides insight into key aspects of the project, such as: project quality, precision, responsibility, adherence to defined deadlines, coordination of different teams, as well as understanding of fieldwork. An investor’s position allows for a broader perspective and role in planning, strategy, and decision-making. For women, this means the opportunity to develop their leadership skills, team coordination and strategic project viewing, which contributes to their professional growth and visibility in the industry.
Fortis Energy has received a building permit for one of the largest solar and battery projects in the region. What does this project mean for the local community and what are its most important innovations or advantages compared to previous projects?
– As far as the local community is concerned, this project will bring new jobs during the construction phase, and later in the maintenance phase of the power plant itself. Also, through various taxes and fees that will be paid to the municipality, the project will contribute to its further development. In addition, the power plant will contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions and better energy stability of the system, which will benefit the entire region in the long run.
Installing battery energy storage will contribute to greater stability and flexibility of the power system, even when there is no sun. It is a technology that brings a new generation of projects to Serbia and represents a step forward towards a modern, sustainable energy system.
Fortis Energy promotes the concept of “Green Baseload,” a stable and sustainable energy model that integrates multiple sources. How would you explain this concept to the general public and why is it important for the future of energy in Serbia and the region?
– “Green Baseload” involves combining different energy sources (solar, wind) with the use of battery storage to ensure constant and reliable production of electricity. By using battery storage, it is possible for the energy produced during periods of high production to be stored and used when consumption is higher or when there is no sun or wind.
For Serbia and the region, this means greater energy independence, lower emissions of harmful gases and alignment with modern European trends in the transition to clean energy.
Intersolar, Munich 2025
As a woman in a leadership position in the green sector, what would you say to young girls who are considering a career in the sector?
– I tell young girls, first of all, to believe in their knowledge and abilities, to be hardworking, curious and dedicated. This is a dynamic field that requires creativity and initiative.
I also advise them not only to choose companies, but mentors and teams that will help them in their personal and professional development.