Women Leading the Global Energy Revolution
Former U.S. President Joe Biden is facing a worsening health situation after his son Hunter Biden said the cancer has spread to his bones and described the disease as "very painful" and "very debilitating."
Q: How many women hold leadership positions in renewable energy?
Women make up 32% of the global renewable energy workforce, but their representation drops significantly at higher levels of leadership. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in its 2025 report, Renewable Energy: A Gender Perspective, women hold only 19% of senior management and board positions in the sector. They also account for just 28% of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) roles, which include engineering and other technical careers.
These figures show that while renewable energy offers opportunities for women, access to decision-making positions remains limited.
Q: Why do fewer women reach leadership positions?
Women face several barriers throughout their careers, including workplace discrimination, gender stereotypes, limited mentorship and unequal opportunities for promotion. The renewable energy industry also has a gap in technical roles, which can restrict women's pathways into senior positions.
IRENA's findings suggest that the issue is not simply about attracting women to the industry. Companies must also create conditions that allow women to advance and remain in their careers.
Q: What do energy experts say about the issue?
IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera emphasized the need for greater inclusion, saying, “To realise the energy transition’s full potential, women must be recognised as equal partners and leaders in shaping the renewables-based future.”
His statement highlights how women's participation affects more than workplace representation. As countries expand renewable energy projects, including solar and wind power, diverse skills and perspectives can help support the sector's development
Q: Why does women's leadership matter to the energy transition?
The shift toward renewable energy requires workers who can develop technologies, manage projects and shape policies. When women are underrepresented in leadership, the industry risks overlooking qualifiedtalent and perspectives that could contribute to its growth.
Women already play important roles across the renewable energy workforce, but their presence at the highest levels remains limited. Addressing that gap will require more than increasing recruitment. It will also mean ensuring that women have fair opportunities to progress, influence decisions and lead the future of energy.
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