Women's empowerment: A catalyst for addressing energy poverty and energy inequality in developing countries

Abstract

Empowering women is acknowledged as a crucial factor for sustainable development and has significant potential in advancing health, education, economic opportunities, and other development sectors. Although previous research has explored the effects of women's empowerment in various fields, there remains a notable gap in studies addressing energy poverty and inequality in developing countries. This study examines the role of women's empowerment in mitigating energy poverty and inequality, for 94 developing nations from 2001 to 2020. The panel regression models and mediation analysis are used to assess the direct and indirect effects of women's empowerment on energy outcomes through financial development and human development. The research findings indicate that while women's empowerment significantly reduces energy poverty and inequality across different income groups and regions, its impact varies within these groups and regions. For instance, enhancing women's employment and education is effective in low-income countries and certain regions of Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. Moreover, the mediation analysis highlights the critical role of financial development and human development in mediating the relationship between women's empowerment and energy outcomes. Policies aimed at promoting gender equality, enhancing financial access, and improving educational opportunities for women emerge as crucial strategies for achieving universal energy access and fostering sustainable development.