Resilient & Circular Solar Infrastructure: O&M, Recycling & Asset Lifecycle

Rashed Hanieh, Business Development Manager for Middle East at Stäubli Renewable Energy With more than a decade of experience in the solar PV and energy storage industry, Rashed Hanieh has built an extensive track record of developing high-growth markets, expanding distribution networks and establishing long-term partnerships with EPCs, developers, utilities and leading renewable energy companies across the Middle East. Throughout his career, he has successfully contributed to the delivery of large-scale utility and commercial solar projects while supporting the adoption of advanced technologies and international quality standards across the region. In his current role at Stäubli, Rashed is focused on strengthening the company's regional presence and accelerating the Middle East's energy transition through reliable electrical solar connection solutions.

Dr. Nabih Cherradi is Desert Technologies' Chief Technology Officer. Has spent over 34 years building on a long track record of equipment's/production lines as well as business development in the semiconductor and photovoltaic industries. Prior to joining Desert Technologies, Nabih is also the CEO of EmpowerSun, a Swiss based photovoltaic energy consultancy, which he founded in 2009. In the meantime, he also co-founded ISWT a French solar developer company. From 2007-2009, as a Vice President/CTO, he accompanied Yingli Green Energy in its fast expansion with responsibility for the technology and manufacturing. He also participated in its IPO in New York (NYSE). As operations & process director at Applied Materials from 1997 to 2007 Nabih was responsible for installing turn-key semiconductor and photovoltaic production lines throughout the world, installing multiple GWs of production capacity across a ten year period. As a scientist, he focused on advance materials for different applications working with different industries (Semiconductor, Photovoltaic and Hard tools) He holds a PhD on materials sciences from the University Henri Poincaré, Nancy as well as an MBA, from the Business School of Nancy, (France).

Carlos León Worner is a renewable energy leader with over 13 years of international experience across APAC and the Middle East, specializing in solar PV and battery energy storage systems (BESS). He currently serves as Renewable Energy Manager at Enertis Applus+, where he leads regional strategy, technical advisory, and quality services for utility-scale projects.Carlos has extensive hands-on experience in PV and BESS manufacturing, QA/QC, factory audits, supply chain oversight, and project execution, having supported developers, IPPs, EPCs, OEMs, and financial institutions worldwide. Between 2020 and 2025, he has been directly involved in 500+ global audits and manufacturing assessments, providing deep insight into quality risks, reliability challenges, and best practices across advanced technologies such as TOPCon, HJT, BC cells, and large-scale energy storage.Having lived and worked in China, Singapore, and now UAE, Carlos brings a unique perspective on global manufacturing trends, technology evolution, and asset reliability. His work focuses on improving long-term performance, bankability, and risk mitigation for renewable energy assets in rapidly growing markets.

Maria is an unwavering advocate for sustainability, harnessing her 22 years expertise in ESG frameworks to spearhead transformative change within industries like construction, real estate ,energy and the investment and services sectors. With an unwavering commitment to guiding cross-sector corporate clients and SMEs towards achieving net zero and ensuring social sustainability compliance, Maria is a driving force in the journey towards a greener future. As the visionary founder of "Sustainability Switch Consultancy," she has solidified her position as a leading woman solopreneur, empowering organizations to align their sustainability agenda with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Beyond her consultancy work, Maria actively contributes to the non-profit organization "Lean In Equity and Sustainability" as Board Co-Chair and Sustainability Chair, empowering women in the energy transition and advocating for a more inclusive industry. Maria's impressive academic background complements her extensive professional experience, as she holds both a UK Master's and Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering and has acquired sustainability expertise from Cambridge University (CISL). Her 22-year international journey in corporate strategy and project operations includes the successful implementation of numerous large-scale projects and government initiatives, solidifying her reputation as a seasoned leader in her field. Recognized as an authority in the realm of sustainability, Maria is highly sought after as a keynote speaker at renowned conferences focusing on sustainability, ESG, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her captivating presence and deep knowledge inspire audiences while providing practical insights into tackling climate change challenges. Maria also conducts executive-level workshops, delving into various climate change subjects, empowering participants to take action and drive meaningful impact. Leveraging her wealth of expertise, she has published numerous articles that serve as beacons of knowledge, inspiring and educating others on the path to a sustainable future. As a thought leader, innovator, and influencer, Maria's contributions to cross sector industry decarbonization are paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future. Her unwavering dedication, combined with her remarkable ability to connect with diverse audiences, makes her an indispensable voice in shaping the energy transition discourse.