ESCAP Expert Opinion - Gender Equality Enables Just Energy Transition

Gender equality lies at the heart of a just energy transition. Yet, women continue to be largely marginalized despite their critical roles as consumers, workers, and leaders – within the efforts and institutions driving the shift toward clean energy.

- Kimberly Roseberry & Michael Williamson

Women as energy users

Sixty-two million people in the Asia-Pacific region lack electricity and nearly 1.1 billion do without clean cooking fuels and technologies. Women are the most acutely impacted by energy deficits, and therefore closing the gaps in energy access is a major step forward in addressing gender inequalities. However, women's voices are not heard in discussions on resource allocation and policy prioritization. This is despite the reality that women are often primary household energy managers and are uniquely positioned to drive the adoption of cleaner and more sustainable energy technologies, such as energy-efficient appliances and clean cookstoves. Without giving greater space for the voices of women in energy access planning and project implementation, the effectiveness and relevance of energy transition efforts are undermined.

Women as energy sector workers and professionals

Women account for only 16 percent of the traditional energy sector and are paid 15 percent less than their similarly skilled male counterparts. Female representation in the renewable energy sector is higher, at 32 percent, but still does not approach equity.