international
Gender inequity in energy and regulation has been a longstanding challenge, prohibiting growth and sustainability and affecting energy services, labor, and decision-making. Studies have shown that when women are given the opportunity to take on larger and more diverse roles within regulatory agencies, they have a positive impact on management, operation, and growth of their institutions.
For regulators and policymakers, the need to consider gender goes far beyond greater representation within regulatory agencies and the energy sector as a whole. Intentional efforts must be made to ensure that gender-specific considerations are included in policy and regulatory frameworks. Countries around the world are increasingly recognizing the value and need for gender equity, and some have set specific gender based goals in policymaking and/or have committed to a gender-inclusive approach to energy sector reform.
With the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), NARUC is taking a multi-pronged approach to help address systemic issues of gender inequity in energy and regulation.
Celebrating International Women's Day
Learn about NARUC's gender initiatives and the importance of gender equity in the energy sector through this video featuring Erin B. Hammel, Director, NARUC International Programs.
Advancing Women Leaders in Energy Project
As part of a whole-of-Government effort to advance women's economic empowerment globally, USAID and NARUC launched a two-year project, Advancing Women Leaders in Energy. Through this project, NARUC is supporting promising mid-career professionals in energy regulatory agencies of Europe and Eurasia to transform socio-cultural norms and policies within their organizations and build a more inclusive workforce. NARUC is also providing tailored training and mentorship to advance participants' careers as leaders of the region’s energy sector.
Women in Energy Regulation Internship Program
This internship program is intended to foster interest among young women in energy regulation by giving them the opportunity to hold short-term positions within their country's energy commissions. By completing this program, it is envisioned that interns will acquire the basic skills and institutional knowledge needed to pursue a career in the sector and become attractive candidates for employment within the host commission, other regulatory agencies, or among regulated entities such as electric utilities.
Practical Guide to Women in Energy Regulation
Developed in collaboration with USAID’s Energy Division, the Practical Guide to Women in Energy Regulation introduces concepts on gender equality in energy regulation. The guide provides energy regulators with strategies to support gender equity and representation for women within the sector, and analyzes three pathways for gender inclusion in the energy regulatory sector: (1) the workforce, (2) regulatory policy, and (3) large infrastructure projects.
The guide is available here. The guide is also available in French here.
Infographic: Supporting Gender Equity in the Energy Sector
With support from USAID and Power Africa, the infographic "Supporting Gender Equity in the Energy Sector" provides information on the following topics:
You can access and download the full version of the infographic here.
Photo Credit: © AS Photo Project / Adobe Stock