Prosumerism as a lever for innovation

Prosumerism as a lever for innovation

Paula Serras Malillos Universidad del País Vasco / Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea, Spain

Prosumerism refers to the trend where consumers are becoming producers of energy through technologies such as solar panels, wind turbines, and other forms of renewable energy. This shift in energy production has significant implications for women in the clean energy transition.

Women have historically been underrepresented in the energy sector, especially in leadership roles. According to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), women make up only 32% of the renewable energy workforce, but there is growing recognition of the need to increase female participation in the industry.

In addition to creating new opportunities for women, prosumerism can also help to address energy poverty, a problem that disproportionately affects women in many parts of the world (see Friends of the Earth International website). By producing their own energy, women can become more self-sufficient and less reliant on traditional energy sources that may be expensive or inaccessible.

Thus, prosumerism presents an exciting opportunity for women to play a more significant role in the clean energy transition. As the world moves towards a more sustainable energy system, it is crucial that women are included and empowered to participate fully in this transition (see this paper which analyses the participation of women in renewable energy cooperatives in Germany and the related socio-cultural barriers).