Creating and Optimizing Employment Opportunities for Women in the Clean Energy Sector in Canada

Abstract

Women are a minority in the energy sector everywhere in the world—and Canada is no exception. Concerns about climate change and fossil fuel insecurity have ensured significant interest in Canada in the technologies and financing for transitioning to clean energy, but far too little attention is being paid to the employment equity implications of such a transition. Despite growing awareness that renewables like wind, solar, and bioenergy generate a much larger volume of employment than fossil fuels, even organizations committed to advocating for social justice in debates about environmental sustainability in Canada have never specifically mentioned gender inequity. This article identifies opportunities and constraints for women’s employment in the renewable and clean energy sector in Canada. Broad findings from this research suggest that women can gain optimal traction from clean energy initiatives only if there are wider socially progressive policies in place. Since women’s ability to take advantage of new energy-related employment options is often constrained by social barriers that limit their access to certain types of education, training, and employment, it is crucial social equity policies go beyond energy sector planning to optimize economic opportunities for women. The conversation about gender equity in Canada’s green economy is currently incipient and tokenistic. Raising awareness is therefore urgent and critical.