Are we building energy systems that work for everyone—or just those who can afford to participate? After attending the Citizens’ Energy Forum and the 3rd Regulatory Roundtable, I came away with a mix of hope and concern. While there’s progress in making energy more affordable and accessible, we’re still sidelining too many people. From eight-year payback periods for retrofits to a growing digital divide, the question remains: how do we design solutions that fit into people’s lives, not overcomplicate them?
Marine Cornelis joined Debating Europe for a conversation on EU’s Road to Fair Climate Adaptation: Citizen Voices and Local Impact
Marine Cornelis presents her work with the Green European Foundation and Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union, Brussels on green and fair energy tariffs
Climate equity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s about fairness, ownership, and ensuring no one is left behind in the climate transition. As an EU Climate Pact Ambassador, I’ve been reflecting on the hard questions: Are we addressing the right issues? Are we building trust? Are we creating a legacy we can be proud of? This is a call to listen, involve, and act—with people, not just for them.
At Enlit Europe, we tackled the hard truths about gender inequality in the energy sector: women make up just 22% of the oil and gas workforce, earn 20% less than men, and are often absent from key decision-making roles. But this isn’t just about stats—it’s about solidarity, mentorship, and embracing the diversity women bring to the table. Women are changing the game, and it’s only the beginning.
Trust in the energy system is slipping. Rising bills, confusing policies, and distant decision-making have left many people feeling overlooked and skeptical. At Enlit Europe, we tackled the hard questions: How do we prove the energy transition benefits people directly? How do we rebuild trust when so many feel let down? The answers lie in clear communication, local collaboration, and showing real results—not someday, but now.
The Mediterranean is more than a beach landscape; it’s a lesson in resilience. From dolphins returning to waters once deemed an environmental disaster to offshore wind farms powering homes, it reminds us that healing is possible. My summer by the sea isn’t just a break—it’s an appointment with myself to rebuild strength and commit to being part of the solution.
Reflexions on Advancing the Democratization of the Energy Transition Through Feminist and Intersectional Perspectives
#EUClimatePact ambassador.
Next Energy Consumer founder and executive director. Consultant & policy-shaker.
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