It’s 2024, and we still need to talk about gender equality in the energy sector. The numbers make that painfully clear:
- Only 22% of the oil and gas workforce are women.
- In renewables, it’s slightly better at 32%, but far from equitable.
- Women in energy earn almost 20% less than men for doing the same work.
But numbers only tell part of the story. At Enlit Europe, I had the privilege of moderating a panel that went far beyond the statistics. The conversation was raw, personal, and unfiltered—a space where women shared their stories of navigating an industry still dominated by men.
What stuck with me wasn’t just the challenges they (we) are facing, but the collective drive to break down barriers and reimagine what leadership, innovation, and inclusion can look like.
Why This Matters
The stakes couldn’t be higher. Women disproportionately bear the burdens of climate change—80% of those displaced by climate disasters are women and girls. And yet, when decisions are made about how to transition to a sustainable future, women are often absent from the rooms where it happens.
This isn’t just a women’s issue. It’s a collective issue. An inclusive energy transition isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s essential if we’re serious about equity and justice.
Stories That Inspire
Our panel brought this to life in ways no statistic ever could.
- The isolation of being “the only one”
Whether it’s being the only woman in a meeting or the only one pushing for work-life balance in a field that often glorifies overwork, the loneliness is real. And yet, the women on this panel showed how sorority—standing for each other and mentoring those who come next—can turn that isolation into solidarity. - Saying “no” to what doesn’t serve us
One panelist spoke about the moment she realized she was done proving her worth to people who weren’t ready to listen. Her advice? Walk away when you need to. Don’t stay in spaces that make you feel small. - Owning the diversity we bring
Another key theme was the importance of embracing the unique perspectives women bring to the table. Diversity isn’t a buzzword; it’s what makes teams stronger, solutions smarter, and transitions just.
What Needs to Happen
If we’re serious about building a just energy transition, here’s what needs to change:
- Mentorship and support networks
Women need allies, mentors, and peers who champion their voices and celebrate their achievements. - Pay equity—now, not someday
There’s no excuse for women earning 20% less than men in 2024. Let’s stop tolerating this gap. - A seat at the table—at all levels
Women must be part of decision-making processes, from corporate boardrooms to local energy cooperatives.
The Power of Collective Action
One of the most powerful takeaways from the panel was this: women are already reshaping the future of energy, but they can’t—and shouldn’t—do it alone. This is about building a sector that reflects the diversity of the world it serves, where everyone has a voice and a stake in the outcome.
To the incredible panelists—Flore Patrat-Delon, Di Napoli Mariangela, Valerie Layan, Luca Mezossy-Dona, and Lara Beers—thank you for your honesty, courage, and vision.
We’re changing the game, and it’s just the beginning.
What’s one step you think the energy sector can take to empower women and foster equity? Let’s keep this conversation going—because the future depends on it.
