Powering change: Women, youth, and the clean energy revolution

Women and youth face systemic barriers to accessing clean energy opportunities. This panel explores evidence-based policies and business strategies from Africa and MENA to ensure a gender-inclusive energy transition. Experts will discuss skills development, finance, and social policies needed to empower women in the clean energy sector.

As the world gradually moves towards clean energy, women and youth risk being left behind. Despite the promise of new jobs and business opportunities in the renewable energy sector, existing gender inequalities could worsen unless proactive steps are taken. Women already face significant barriers to entering and advancing in the energy industry, and without targeted policies and business strategies, the transition to low-carbon energy could further marginalize them.

This interactive panel discussion will bring together leading experts to share insights from Africa and the MENA region on how to create a more inclusive clean energy future. Speakers will explore practical, evidence-based solutions that ensure women and youth are not just included but actively benefit from clean energy opportunities.

Key discussion areas

• Unequal access to clean energy: Across the world, women have less access to modern, clean energy sources, which affects their health, livelihoods, and economic opportunities.
• Exploitation in clean energy business models: Many small-scale women entrepreneurs face unfair pricing structures and limited access to finance, preventing them from thriving in the energy sector.
• The need for gender-responsive policies: Without policies that prioritize gender equity, the shift to clean energy may deepen economic and social inequalities.

Why this matters

The clean energy transition is not just about reducing carbon emissions; it’s also about economic growth, job creation, and social justice. However, to fully unlock its potential, the transition must be gender-sensitive and inclusive.

Without proper training, financial support, and employment pathways, many women and young people will miss out on opportunities in the sector. This could slow economic development and make it harder for countries to meet global goals like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

What you’ll gain from this event

• Insights from leading experts on gender, energy policy, and business models.
• Real-world examples of successful policies and initiatives that support women and youth in clean energy.
• Actionable recommendations for governments, businesses, and development organizations to drive meaningful change.

Speakers

• Ann Kingiri, African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)
• Michele Diop, Desjardins International Development (DID)
• Hala Abou-Ali, Economic Research Forum (ERF)

Chair

Bipasha Baruah, Professor & Canada Research Chair in Global Women’s Issues.

How to attend

This is event is in-person only and for anyone who is attending The Commission on the Status for Women 2025 (UNCSW).

Thursday 13 March, 4:30 to 6:00pm, CCUN 10th floor