Women in Energy: The tide is changing

The growing presence of women in technical roles, leadership positions, and entrepreneurship is creating new pathways and opportunities for future generations. As industries become more inclusive and more women are encouraged to pursue careers in these fields, the role of women in shaping the future of energy will only continue to grow. 

Inspiring women breaking barriers in energy 

Throughout history, women have overcome immense challenges to make groundbreaking contributions in energy. Here are some examples: 

Dr. Maria Zuber – Vice President for Research at MIT 

Dr. Maria Zuber is a leading expert in planetary science and has made incredible contributions to energy storage technologies, including advancing battery technology for energy storage applications. As the Vice President for Research at MIT, Zuber leads initiatives that explore how clean energy can be integrated into society and improve our global energy systems. Her leadership at MIT has helped promote innovation and research into energy storage, solidifying her role as a key figure in energy technology. 

Emily Reichert – CEO, Greentown Labs 

Emily Reichert is the former CEO of Greentown Labs, the largest cleantech incubator in the U.S. Under her leadership, Greentown Labs became a major hub for energy startups and innovation. Reichart has continued her commitment to clean energy by assuming the role of CEO of Massachusetts Clean Energy Center and is known for her ability to bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders to accelerate the transition to a clean energy future.  

Emma Pinchbeck – Chief Executive of Climate Change Committee 

Emma Pinchbeck is a leading voice in the UK energy sector, known for her advocacy of a low-carbon future and her influence on national energy policies. As the former Chief Executive of Energy UK, she played a pivotal role in shaping discussions around renewable energy, decarbonisation, and the transition to a net-zero economy. Throughout her career, she has been a strong advocate for the integration of clean technologies and improved energy market structures. Prior to leading Energy UK, she held senior roles at RenewableUK and the environmental think tank E3G, further cementing her reputation as a key figure in the UK’s green energy transition. Emma is now set to take on a new challenge as the Chief Executive of the UK Climate Change Committee, where she will continue to influence government policies and drive progress towards the country’s ambitious climate goals. 

The current landscape for women in energy  

As global economies shift towards more sustainable energy sources, the role of women in energy-related tech fields – like energy storage, smart grids, and electrification – has never been more crucial. In this sector, women now represent a growing portion of the workforce, particularly in the areas of renewable energy, environmental sustainability, and clean technologies. Globally, women account for approximately 22-25% of the energy workforce, although this number varies by region and specific subsector. 

Women are not just entering the energy sector in support roles but are becoming integral players at every level of the industry. From technical and engineering roles to leadership positions in energy companies, government agencies, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), women are increasingly driving change in the sector. As the demand for clean energy solutions rises, more women are stepping up to lead efforts in energy storage, smart grid innovation, and the broader field of electrification. 

Mentoring 

While more women are entering the energy sector, mentorship remains vital to their career advancement. Research consistently shows that women are more likely to succeed when they have access to senior mentors and role models who can offer guidance and share their experiences by becoming mentors themselves. 

Many women in energy are paying it forward by supporting the next generation of women entering the industry. These mentors are invaluable in helping young women navigate the often difficult challenges of the sector, providing advice, guidance, and encouragement along the way. 

I’m particularly passionate about helping the next generation of women in energy flourish, which is why I’m getting involved in Regen’s Women in Renewable Energy (ReWIRE) mentorship programme. Achieving net zero requires diverse talent, and ReWiRE’s mentoring programme empowers women in clean energy by enhancing their career development, strategic skills, and professional networks to support their progression into senior leadership roles. You can find out more about ReWIRE here.

Networking 

Programmes like WUN (Womens Utilities Network), ReWiRE (Women Leading Innovation) and WiNES (Women in Energy Storage) are becoming pivotal in connecting women across the energy sector. These initiatives help create spaces for women to thrive professionally. By encouraging collaboration and community-building, these programmes provide a space for women to share their insights and experiences, overcome challenges, and advocate for greater gender equality in the industry. 

The future: A more inclusive and diverse sector

As the energy sector continues to evolve, the future for women looks bright. More companies are committing to diversity and inclusion, recognising that a diverse workforce leads to better decision-making, innovation, and overall business success. 

The growing representation of women at all levels of the energy industry is paving the way for greater gender equity. Women are no longer just participants in these sectors – they are leading the charge in transforming them. As industries become more inclusive, the role of women in defining the next era of energy is well underway. 

While challenges remain, the progress women have made in energy is undeniable. From leadership roles to entrepreneurship and mentorship, women are breaking barriers and setting the stage for future generations to follow. With continued support, mentorship, and opportunities for growth, women will continue to steer progress in energy, driving innovation, and creating more sustainable solutions for clean energy.

Energy Storage Summit: Powering Her Future panel

I’ll be participating on the Women in Energy Storage (WiNES) Powering Her Future panel at Energy Storage Summit, on the 18th of February (15:45-16:45), joined by influential women from across the energy sector:

• Cathy McClay – Managing Director at National Grid DSO
• Charlotte Johnson – General Manager at Kraken
• Lisa Mackay – Chief Commercial Officer at Fidra Energy
• Gayatri Desai – Managing Director at CIBC
• Sabrina Polito – Associate at CMS

If you’re attending, come along to hear a discussion with some of the most inspiring women leading the charge in our industry, sharing their career journeys, insights to achieving success and how to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.