Women In Solar - Joumana El Hosri, CEO - Sacotel Znshine

Joumana El Hosri

Chief Executive Officer, Sacotel Znshine 

About Joumana

Joumana Hosri is a global advocate for renewable energy and a trailblazing figure in the industry. As the highest-ranked woman in the solar supply sector in the MENA region and a non-Chinese representative of Znshine PV-Tech, the world's 10th-largest solar panel manufacturer, she has cemented her leadership in a highly competitive field.

A board member of the Fernand Hosri Group, a family business founded by her father in 1966, she has played a pivotal role in expanding the group's operations across the Middle East, from security and telecommunications to home automation and renewable energy. A graduate of Sorbonne University with a degree in economics, Hosri's leadership has earned her numerous accolades, including "Renewable Energy Pioneer of the Year 2023," MESIA’s "Woman in Solar Middle East and Africa 2021," and "Visionary Leader of the Year 2019." Driven by her passion for sustainability, Hosri is actively involved with organizations such as the UN Global Compact (UNGC) and RENEW MENA, a World Bank initiative. She regularly engages global audiences as a speaker and moderator at prominent forums like the World Future Energy Summit and COP28, where she advocates for a just and equitable energy transition. Marking the 58th anniversary of the Fernand Hosri Group during COP28, Hosri and her family pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, making them one of the first family businesses to commit to such a bold target.

In 2024, she was also named "Impact Leader" by FBN Levant, underscoring her influence and dedication to sustainability.

1)Please Introduce yourself and your role at Sacotel Znshine

I am the CEO of Sacotel ZNshine Middle East FZ LLE.

2)Can you share your journey into the solar industry? What was it that inspired you to pursue a career in this field? 

My journey into the solar industry began during a transformative period in our family business, as leadership transitioned to the next generation with my brother at the helm. Alongside my brother and sister, I harbored a profound passion for sustainability and a strong desire to address the escalating climate crisis. We quickly realized that merely engaging in corporate social responsibility would not suffice; instead, we recognized the potential to position sustainability as a core revenue generator, ensuring a permanent shift in our business model. Entering the renewable energy sector as solar technology was gaining momentum in the MENA region, it became evident that solar had the power to transform not only our energy systems but also the economies and communities we serve. What began as a side initiative has evolved into my lifelong mission. My decisions are anchored in a simple formula of "4 WINs": a win for my company, a win for my stakeholders, a win for the community, and a win for the planet.

3)Can you share a significant achievement or milestone in your career that you are particularly proud of? What made it special for you? 

One of the most significant achievements in my career has been the expansion of Sacotel Znshine's offerings. Since our inception in 2016, we have evolved from supplying solar panels to including electrolysers and a comprehensive green hydrogen generation solution, as well as Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services and co-development of projects.

I am particularly proud of our ambitious plan to establish at least two solar panel manufacturing facilities in the MENA region and one in the USA. This strategic shift enables us to deepen our vertical integration by moving downstream into EPC and co-development while advancing upstream into manufacturing, ultimately aiming to future-proof our family business and enhance our competitive edge.

I feel blessed to have a robust network that facilitates my access to both upstream and downstream opportunities, making this journey enjoyable. I firmly believe that people are the heart of any business, and I am grateful for the wonderful individuals I’ve met along my renewable energy journey—many of whom have become close friends and extended family. This exceptional community fosters a loving and generous ecosystem where my long-term "4 WINs" principle is recognized, appreciated, and reciprocated.

4)You were named MESIA’s Woman in Solar of the Year in. How can we have more women in the industry? 

Winning the MESIA "Woman in Solar" award was a tremendous honor, but it also highlighted a key issue—women are still significantly underrepresented in the solar industry, especially on the supply side. To change this, we need to create more visible success stories of women leaders in the field. We also need to invest in education and mentorship programs that encourage young women to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). At Sacotel Znshine, I’m personally committed to making a difference.

In our upcoming manufacturing facilities in the MENA region and the USA, I am committed to creating diverse and inclusive workplaces and promise to prioritize hiring women in these new facilities. This milestone is special to me because it reflects our dedication to driving sustainable energy initiatives and fostering gender equity within the industry. Through these ventures, we aim to create local jobs, empower women, and contribute significantly to the growth of the renewable energy sector in the MENA region and beyond.

When women see other women thriving in this space, they feel empowered to enter and excel. Industry-wide, we must ensure more inclusive hiring practices and provide flexible work environments to attract and retain female talent.

5)How do you see the role of women evolving in the solar industry, particularly in leadership positions? What changes would you like to see?

My advice to young women entering the solar or renewable energy sectors is simple: "don't be afraid to claim your space." This industry is relatively new compared to more established fields like oil and gas, making it easier to penetrate and succeed. The renewable energy market will thrive for decades—governments worldwide are committed to the energy transition up until 2050, offering a steady flow of opportunities for both women and men.

There’s a growing demand for fresh minds and dedicated hands to shape the future of energy. What’s special about this field is its vocational side—the tangible, positive impact you can have on communities and the planet. Whether you're involved in large-scale projects or small local initiatives, you’re part of a movement that directly improves the environment. It’s a beautiful, passionate industry where your work has a lasting and meaningful effect on society.

6)What advice would you give to young women who are considering a carreer in the solar industry or other renewable energy fields? 

To any young woman considering a career in solar or renewable energy, I would say: "don’t hesitate. This industry is at the forefront of addressing one of the world’s most critical challenges—climate change—and it needs passionate, innovative minds like yours. As women, we have an innate connection to life and its continuity, and without addressing the climate crisis, life itself is in jeopardy. By entering this field, you’re not only building a career but also helping to secure the future of our planet.

Take every opportunity to learn, whether through formal education, vocational training, or hands-on experience. Since the renewable energy sector is relatively new, it offers unique opportunities to succeed compared to more established industries like oil and gas. Seek out mentors, both male and female, who can guide you through your journey. Build your network and find communities that share your passion.

It’s also important to know that this industry isn’t just about science and engineering—it touches on policy, economics, communications, and more, so find where your strengths lie and go all in. The renewable energy transition is guaranteed to thrive for decades, with governments committed to sustainability goals through 2050 and beyond, meaning there will be endless opportunities for growth and impact. And above all, never doubt that your contribution matters. You can be part of the solution to a global issue while building a fulfilling, impactful career."

About Sacotel

Sacotel Znshine is a family-owned business dedicated to advancing renewable energy solutions, with a strong focus on solar energy and green hydrogen. Partnering with Znshine PV-Tech, a leading Chinese solar panel manufacturer ranked 10th globally, Sacotel Znshine has expanded its offerings beyond solar panel supply to include electrolysers and comprehensive green hydrogen generation systems.

In 2023, the company secured a pivotal agreement with Guofu, a top manufacturer of hydrogen generation systems, positioning itself at the forefront of the green hydrogen revolution. In 2024, Sacotel Znshine further enhanced its impact by partnering with BaxEnergy, a specialized provider of software solutions for renewable energy asset management. BaxEnergy’s platform offers end-to-end visibility and control over diverse energy sources—including solar, wind, hydro, and energy storage—making it ideal for large-scale renewable energy projects and supporting the growth of key players across the MENA region.