Energy transitions are underway globally and locally, guided by the threefold objective of SDG 7 to provide universal access to modern energy services, to double the uptake of renewables, and to increase the efficiency improvement rates. A sustainable energy sector is emerging and projected to grow significantly, from 11 million to 42 million employees by 2050. For the energy transitions to be scaled up and accelerated as required to meet agreed climate goals and to overcome extreme poverty, sustainable energy needs to harness talent in all its forms and foster innovation.
In addition to changing energy systems, the global energy transition offers a chance for deep societal transformation. It is an opportunity to transition to a more inclusive workforce and to societies that leave no one behind.
This report contains an overview of women’s current participation in the sustainable energy workforce in developed and emerging economies, the benefits of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, industry interviews, good practice examples, and recommendations for a more gender-diverse sector. It examines: