ACCESS Seminar Series #2: Women and Renewable Energy - Exploring Potential and Empowering Women in the Energy Sector

Jakarta, October 27, 2023 - The Accelerating Clean Energy Access to Reduce Inequality (ACCESS) Project of UNDP Indonesia, in collaboration with the Gender Study of the School of Strategic and Global Studies (SKSG) Postgraduate Program at the University of Indonesia, hosted the 2nd instalment of the ACCESS Seminar Series. This seminar, titled "Women and Renewable Energy: How Far Have We Come?" took place on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at the SLG Hall, IASTH Building, 5th Floor, University of Indonesia Salemba Campus.

The seminar brought together a diverse panel of experts in their respective fields to share insights on implementing gender mainstreaming strategies, discuss future opportunities and strategies for enhancing women's participation in the energy sector, and engage in dialogue to strengthen gender integration in energy-related policies. Distinguished speakers at the seminar included Sahid Junaidi (Secretary General of EBTKE, Ministry of ESDM), Mike Verawati (Secretary General of the Indonesian Women's Coalition), and Mia Siscawati (Chair of the Gender Study Program, SKSG UI). Each speaker addressed various aspects of women and renewable energy, providing valuable insights into the challenges and lessons learned. They also discussed the disparities in policy and outcomes and emphasized the need for gender mainstreaming in energy policies and practices in Indonesia.

In his opening remarks, Athor Subroto, Director of SKSG UI, emphasized the pivotal role of women in Indonesia's energy transformation for economic growth. He highlighted, "Indonesia is currently striving to escape the middle-income trap, and this requires the right energy transition policies and practices. Energy transition cannot occur without considering the role of women in the process."

Agnes Gurning, Gender and Social Inclusivity Analyst at UNDP Indonesia, underscored the importance of recognizing the gender dimension in energy policies. She emphasized that the effectiveness of energy policies would improve with proper gender integration. In line with this, Andriah Feby Misna, Director of New Renewable Energy at the Ministry of ESDM, provided her perspective on women's involvement in decision-making in the energy sector. She pointed out that women represent only 5% of decision-making roles in the energy sector. In her view, women need more support to participate in decision-making aspects of the energy sector.

Sahid Junaedi, a speaker from the Ministry of ESDM, explained that women have a crucial role in the energy sector, particularly in managing household energy consumption. He stated, "In the era of energy transition, women play a significant role in influencing and being influenced by this transition process. This influence is keenly felt in rural and remote areas."

Meanwhile, Mike Verawati from the Women's Coalition explained the vital role of women in addressing energy crises, which often have negative impacts, especially at the domestic level. She stressed that 70% of a woman's daily life is intertwined with energy. Increasing awareness of women's role in energy issues is crucial in ensuring sustainable solutions.

Mia Siscawati from SKSG UI highlighted the importance of energy policies adopting principles of equality, justice, and inclusivity. She emphasized that innovations in renewable energy technology must be developed through collaborative work with the communities they intend to serve, with special attention to women, people with disabilities, vulnerable groups, and marginalized communities.

In addition to the "Women and Renewable Energy" seminar, an exhibition booth showcasing innovative activities related to women and energy was also held. During the seminar, participants had the opportunity to discuss and exchange ideas at each booth.

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For further information, please contact:
Monitoring Evaluation and Outreach Analyst ACCESS Project, Sugiyanto: sugiyanto.sugiyanto@undp.org