Gender Equality in Renewable Energy in the Lower Mekong: Assessment and Opportunities

The program focuses on scaling up investment in grid-connected renewable power, with a specific emphasis on addressing gender equality and inclusion. A Gender Implementation Plan has been developed to ensure that gender equality and inclusion are addressed across program activities. The renewable energy sectors in the Lower Mekong countries are characterized by increasing options, driven by the private sector. Hydropower and solar energy development are increasing, while biomass and wind power sector growth is lagging. Most governments in the region have unclear policies and incentives regarding the adoption of renewable energy, but have set up long-term targets. The policy environment for advancing gender equality and renewable energy is well placed in the region, with national gender equality plans and commitments made by governments. However, these concerns remain separate, and there is a need to integrate gender equality into renewable energy planning and policy-making. The private renewable energy sector in the region is dominated by men, with limited representation of women in leadership positions. Key informant interviews with individuals strategically placed in the renewable energy sector of the four focus countries revealed several challenges and opportunities for promoting gender equality and gender-responsiveness in the renewable energy sector. These include the need for more women in leadership positions, greater consultation with women and men stakeholders in infrastructure development, and consideration of the needs and interests of women and men in energy planning. The findings of this assessment are organized according to the energy and renewable energy value chain, including policy environment, leadership in employment, consultations for infrastructure development, and end-use issues. The assessment highlights the importance of integrating gender equality into renewable energy planning and policy-making, and provides recommendations for promoting gender equality and gender-responsiveness in the renewable energy sector. In Cambodia, the energy sector is dominated by hydropower, with limited development of other renewable energy sources. Women's participation in the energy sector is limited, with few women in leadership positions. In Lao PDR, the energy sector is also dominated by hydropower, with limited development of other renewable energy sources. Women's participation in the energy sector is limited, with few women in leadership positions. In Thailand, the energy sector is characterized by a mix of fossil fuels and renewable energy sources, including solar and wind power. Women's participation in the energy sector is increasing, with more women in leadership positions. In Vietnam, the energy sector is characterized by a mix of fossil fuels and renewable energy sources, including solar and wind power. Women's participation in the energy sector is increasing, with more women in leadership positions. Overall, the assessment highlights the need for greater integration of gender equality into renewable energy planning and policy-making in the Lower Mekong region. It provides recommendations for promoting gender equality and gender-responsiveness in the renewable energy sector, and highlights the importance of addressing the needs and interests of women and men stakeholders in energy planning and policy-making.