DEBATE. An overwhelming majority of those who work with the renewal of our energy is male. Women’s skills and experience needed at all levels in the sector that is so important to our everyday lives, writes four Directors General and representatives of the industry.
In some occupations, such as electricians and plumbers, are women less than two percent, according to recent statistics from statistics Sweden, statistics Sweden.
Among the competent electrical installers that are registered with the National Electrical Safety Board is male dominance is even greater. 3.8 per thousand, thus only 156 of the more than 41 000 electrical contractors, are women. That compares with the most female-dominated profession, pre-school, where the proportion of men is 4 percent.
This means that of those who work practically with the renovation and conversion of energy systems and energy plants are an overwhelmingly male. The company will install photovoltaic systems, heat pump systems, smart home or reinforcing grids and build district heating plants is dominated by men, often with technical education.
As a leading representative in the energy sector, we are concerned about this low percentage of women, in particular in certain professions. Women’s skills and experience needed at all levels in a sector of society that has great importance for our daily lives. Obviously, there are obstacles that we in the energy sector need to work together to tear down. The biggest obstacle seems to be a mental picture of the energy industry and energy technology professions. We are convinced that today’s young people want to work in activities that are perceived as modern and where equality and diversity are natural.
It should be said that there are still bright spots in the sector. The number of women who are CEOs has increased significantly in a few years, from a very low level to a third. Energy companies have felt well by this and by that also have received competencies from various professions in their lines.
The authorities in the energy sector also has a relatively even gender balance, especially in senior positions. But this is still not enough to reverse the trend as long as the majority of employees with technical background are still men.
Much more than ever must be done to change the recruitment to vocational education, as evidenced by the government’s “Choosing a profession “. Admission Requirements, content and descriptions of training needs in our view, be revised to attract motivated and suitable applicant. It is not enough any single conference for counselors. Old structures and beliefs need to be challenged and questioned both in professional life and in the education system.
Examples of that change is possible within the police and armed forces previously all-male territory. According to Statistics Sweden, the day the police 33 percent and the defense about 9 percent of women in their activities.
Qraftsamling – a change and leadership development programs for a more attractive energy industry, are examples of an offensive sector investment from energy companies Sweden. There are several networks where women support and encourage each other in case of problems, such as EL-the women in the Electricians Union.
An obvious starting point for gender equality work is that there must be zero tolerance of not only sexual harassment but also against negative jargon . The construction sector has taken hold of these problems and we urge all employers in the energy sector to take up a dialogue with their employees. Attitudes and values need to be discussed and the management’s attitude is very important!
Student Initiatives, practice and site visits can get more young women to apply for training and careers in the energy sector. To work with electrical installations, power plants, energy and development should be interesting for many, regardless of gender. We will need many skilled men and women in the transition to a sustainable and efficient energy.
In summary, the entire sector to contribute to raising successful women, both in the media and within the organizations. “Power Women” is an example of a network with great success doing this and pushing forward the debate. It is high time that we mobilize all positive forces of both companies and trade associations agencies and training providers.
We encourage all employers in the energy sector to take concrete action. There are no easy solutions – but with joint efforts we can achieve important changes.
Elizabeth Falemo , Director General Elsäkerhetsverket
Anne Vadasz Nilsson Director General Inspectorate
Mikael Odenberg , Director General of Swedish Kraftnät
Erik Brandsma , Director General of the Swedish Energy Agency
Jonas Vallin ‘Union Swedish Electricians Union
Jan Siezing , president Installer Companies
Charlotte Unger CEO Swedish Wind Energy
Thomas Korssell, , president of SEK Swedish Elstandard
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