The deep dive session on "Investing in Women as Partners in Just Energy Transition" brought together 25 women from diverse backgrounds to explore the vital role of gender equality in driving a sustainable and inclusive energy transition. The session emphasized the need to recognize women as key stakeholders and partners in this process to ensure that energy systems benefit all members of society.
The lecture, delivered by Ms. Maitet Diokno of the CPII, focused on the concept of the "Modern Energy Minimum" and its gender perspectives. The "Modern Energy Minimum" is defined as the essential energy services required for basic human development, with a target of 1,000 kWh of energy consumption per person per year. This threshold ensures access to critical services such as lighting, heating, communication, and clean cooking. In addition, this is higher compared to the UN SDG 7. Ms. Diokno explained how energy access at or above this level is a fundamental enabler of health, education, economic opportunities, and overall well-being.
A key part of her lecture was addressing the gendered dimensions of energy access. Women, particularly in rural and marginalized communities, are disproportionately affected by energy poverty. They often bear the responsibility for securing energy for cooking, lighting, and household chores, which limits their time and opportunities for economic participation and personal development. Ms. Diokno stressed the importance of designing energy systems that consider women’s specific needs, ensuring that energy policies and initiatives are inclusive and contribute to women's empowerment.
The session concluded with a collective commitment to continue the conversation on gender and energy, with a focus on striving for more than just the "bare minimum" of energy access. Participants emphasized the importance of working towards an energy transition that transforms the lives of women, improves their opportunities, and ensures a better quality of life for future generations. The conversation reinforced the idea that the path forward involves empowering women to be leaders, decision-makers, and active contributors to the energy transition, driving solutions that benefit society as a whole.