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Kesara Bandaragoda
Kesara Bandaragoda (born 1986) was a transformative figure in the global renewable energy sector, best known for her influential role in spearheading the transition to sustainable energy practices throughout the 2020s. Her groundbreaking work in advocating for, and implementing, sustainable energy strategies across various industries has been a cornerstone in the fight against climate change. Playing a significant role in the global energy revolution, she left an indelible impact on both the renewable energy industry and the world at large.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Bandaragoda demonstrated an interest in environmental issues from a young age. She completed her undergraduate degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of Colombo in 2008 before pursuing her passion further, obtaining a Masters in Renewable Energy Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2011.
Career
After graduating, Bandaragoda joined the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in 2012, working diligently to promote renewable energy solutions in developing countries. In 2015, she co-founded GreenTech Solutions, a start-up dedicated to providing affordable and efficient renewable energy solutions to industries worldwide. Following the success of GreenTech, Bandaragoda was appointed as the Director of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in 2025.
Major Achievements and Recognition
Under Bandaragoda's leadership, GreenTech Solutions revolutionized the renewable energy sector by developing cutting-edge technology to harness solar and wind energy more efficiently. For these innovations, she was awarded the Global Energy Prize in 2023. As the head of IRENA, Bandaragoda played a pivotal role in the adoption of renewable energy strategies by major global economies, which led to her being recognized as one of Time's 100 Most Influential People in 2027.
Impact and Legacy
The legacy of Bandaragoda's work in the renewable energy industry is transformative. She is globally recognized for her significant contributions to accelerating the transition towards sustainable energy, resulting in a remarkable reduction in global carbon emissions. Her tireless advocacy for renewable energy and sustainability has influenced countless industries and governments, making her a key figure in global efforts to combat climate change.
Personal Life
Besides her professional commitments, Bandaragoda was an ardent advocate for gender equality in STEM fields. She funded scholarships for young women pursuing careers in renewable energy and environmental engineering, with the goal of fostering a new generation of female leaders in the sector. She was married and had two children, and balanced her professional and personal life with aplomb.