Women hold only 32% of jobs in the renewable energy sector: Report

<p>IRENA warns that without workforce diversity and gender parity, the global energy transition risks losing both momentum and fairness.</p> — IRENA warns that without workforce diversity and gender parity, the global energy transition risks losing both momentum and fairness.

A new report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reveals that women continue to hold only 32 per cent of full-time positions in the global renewable energy workforce, a figure that has not improved since the agency’s first gender analysis in 2019. The findings underline a lack of progress in gender inclusion across the fast-growing sector despite its pivotal role in the global energy transition.

The report, Renewable Energy: A Gender Perspective (Second Edition), identifies the most pronounced gender gaps in leadership, where women represent just 19 per cent of senior roles. Women make up 45 per cent of administrative roles but only 28 per cent in STEM-based positions and 22 per cent in technical trades such as installation, construction, and operations, areas vital for the clean energy shift.

IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera said achieving gender equality requires strong data, targeted policies, and collaboration across governments, businesses, and institutions. He emphasised that women must be equal partners and leaders to unlock the sector’s full potential. The report cites systemic barriers, including bias in hiring, limited access to technical training, and challenges in balancing caregiving with professional advancement. It calls for governments to enforce equal pay and non-discrimination laws, and for employers to introduce flexible work options, transparent promotions, and mentorship programmes. IRENA warns that without workforce diversity and gender parity, the global energy transition risks losing both momentum and fairness.