Women play a critical role in shaping the future of energy. As the world moves towards cleaner, more sustainable energy systems, ensuring that this transition is just and inclusive is paramount. This aligns closely with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, and SDG 13: Climate Action. But what does a Just Energy Transition mean, and where do women fit into it? Experts from the Clean, Affordable, and Secure Energy (CASE) project for Southeast Asia share their insights. But what does a Just Energy Transition mean, and where do women fit into it? Experts from the Clean, Affordable, and Secure Energy (CASE) project for Southeast Asia share their insights.
Women as Catalysts for a Just Energy Transition
For Angelika Marie David, Project Manager of CASE Philippines, a Just Energy Transition prioritises inclusivity and considers the socioeconomic impacts of shifting to low-carbon energy systems. However, she highlights that women still face barriers such as limited access to skills and employment, unreliable energy access, and exclusion from decision-making processes.
“We must acknowledge the role, capabilities, and participation of women as essential drivers of change,” David states. “There are already success stories proving that when women are empowered with the right technology and opportunities, they become catalysts who create impact and contribute to the energy transition.”
Similarly, Salkha Barabha, Project Officer at CASE Indonesia, emphasises the significant role women already play in sustainability efforts within their households, schools, and communities.
“In Indonesia, women are pioneers in advocating sustainability. We must empower more women in leadership and innovation to drive a just and inclusive energy transition,” she says.
Accelerating Gender Equity in the Energy Sector
Ensuring gender equity in the energy transition requires a collective effort from governments, businesses, and communities. Professor Phimsupha Kokchang, Researcher at CASE Thailand, stresses the importance of enforcing inclusive policies, fostering equal opportunities, and investing in women-led clean energy projects.
“By building supportive networks and investing in women-led clean energy projects, we can drive meaningful change and ensure a just transition for all,” she explains.
Nghiem Thi Ngoan, Energy Advisor at CASE Viet Nam, highlights the need for gender-disaggregated data and gender impact assessments in shaping policies.
“It is crucial to strengthen the capacity of vulnerable groups, especially women, by providing them with knowledge and skills to protect their rights and actively participate in the energy transition,” she adds.
Dr. Amalinda Savirani, Head of the Doctoral Programme in Political Science at Universitas Gadjah Mada, underscores the necessity of integrating a gender perspective into development policies at all levels.
“Policymakers, whether at the national, local, or village level, along with businesses and community leaders must recognise that without addressing the needs of the most vulnerable groups, the impact of the energy transition will be limited and unsustainable.”
A Future of Equality and Sustainability
The path to a cleaner energy future must leave no one behind. Women’s participation in decision-making, leadership, and innovation in the energy sector is essential to making the transition truly just and effective. By addressing gender disparities, implementing inclusive policies, and fostering opportunities for women, we can ensure that the shift to sustainable energy benefits everyone.
By reaffirming our commitment to gender equity in the energy sector, we can work together to build a future that is not only clean and affordable but also just and inclusive.
