Women Make Up 22% of Renewable Energy Jobs, Lowest in Technical Trades: IRENA

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) latest report finds that women hold 32% of full-time jobs in the renewables sector. Although higher than in other energy industries, IRENA’s Renewable Energy: A gender perspective (Second Edition) confirms that in the sector, no meaningful progress has been made in women’s representation over the years. The report found that the percentage has remained unchanged since IRENA’s first gender analysis in 2019. 

Building on the previous IRENA study, the second edition calls for effective measures to address the persistent lack of progress. It also warns against the risks of labour shortages without greater gender equality, as well as the lack of diverse perspectives.

Women Hold Just 22% of Technical Roles in Renewable Energy

The data shows the widest gap in senior leadership positions, of which women account for only 19%. Women are significantly better represented in administrative roles, where they account for 45% of the workforce.

Additionally, the sectors also saw a drop in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)-related positions, to 28%. It's found the number to be lowest (22%) in trades, such as installers, machine operators, electricians, and construction workers, which typically require technical certifications, vocational training, or apprenticeships.

IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera said, “Advancing gender equality in the renewable energy sector depends on robust data, targeted policy interventions and active collaboration of all stakeholders. Our analysis is the only of its kind to fill this knowledge gap. Unfortunately, despite performing better than in fossil fuel industries, little progress has been made. The sector still has a lot of work to do. To realise the energy transition’s full potential, women must be recognised as equal partners and leaders in shaping the renewables-based future.”

Women Form 35% in Off-Grid Energy Roles 

Women are frequently the primary users and managers of household energy systems, bearing the greatest burden of energy poverty, namely in developing countries.

The study noted that in non-governmental organisations, women account for around 35% of employees in off-grid and community-based projects. Thereby, it highlights significant potential to expand their leadership and decision-making in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal for universal energy access.

Private Sectors See the lowest female participation  

The study also finds disparities among different types of organisations. Private enterprises, which dominate the renewables sector, report the lowest levels of female participation at 25%. By comparison, non-governmental organisations show nearly 48% female representation, while government and non-commercial institutions report 37%.

The report calls for both top-down and bottom-up strategies, as well as cross-cutting initiatives to overcome the barriers. Governments should enforce laws on non-discrimination, equal pay, and access to education, while embedding gender equality into climate and energy policies.

Employers must introduce flexible work arrangements, transparent recruitment and promotion practices, mentorship opportunities, and safe, as well as respectful workplaces. Educational institutions, trade unions, civil society, and international organisations also have a critical role in dismantling stereotypes, expanding opportunities, and holding institutions accountable.