INTERVIEW WITH ...
in underdeveloped nations . In addition to this focus , we certainly must include women in this transition , through education , advocacy , and leadership .
On a global scale , we are not looking only for a renewable energy transition . We are looking for a just energy transition , and in order for the energy transition to be fully credible and just , we must ensure that women and marginalised groups are not forgotten as we continue to advance this journey . It is critical that women are involved in the renewable energy transition , from policymakers to government representatives , all the way to site leaders .
The renewable energy sector is only growing larger , and this means that the need for skilled workers will continue to increase . IRENA estimates that 38 million employees will be needed by 2030 to reach and deliver global climate commitments . Increasing the amount of female representation in the renewable energy sector has double benefits : increasing the size of the workforce while simultaneously bridging the gender gap currently faced in this sector .
Q . WHAT HINDERS FEMALE REPRESENTATION IN THE INDUSTRY ?
» The United Nations reports that 80 % of people who are displaced by climate disasters are women , however , their representation in the clean energy industry is minimal , at around 32 % globally , and just 11 % in India . Around 34 % of women in the workforce are in corporate functions and only about 1 % of women occupy jobs in operations and maintenance or core STEM roles .
Women have historically not been drawn into areas of sustainability and renewable energy , which has its roots in traditionally male-dominated sectors , like engineering .
This lack of a female presence could be caused by societal expectations similar to that of women in STEM or cultural issues that hinder women from entering the workforce . Over the years , this has led to a lack of diversity in the talent pool and created an environment where women may feel like outsiders .
Looking back at my early adult life , a large majority of women did not go to engineering colleges due to the lack of available hostels for them to stay in , which raised security and safety issues . The combined effect of the enabling environment and the cultural environment prevented women from getting into STEM careers .
Q . HOW WILL RENEW HELP OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES ?
» I am committed to driving not just positive environmental impact , but positive transformation on the societal scale as well . My work at ReNew has been hyper-focused
18 December 2023