First meeting of the Equality Platform for the energy sector

The first meeting of the Equality Platform gathered over 30 representatives of founding organisations to exchange experiences of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and share their their ideas and actions to promote equality in the sector.

All the members who have joined the Equality Platform for the energy sector were invited to the online event organised by the Commission on 7 April 2022. Commissioner Simson and Commissioner Dalli address the participants with video messages commending them for their trailblazing role in fostering equality in the energy sector.

Director-General Ditte Juul Jørgensen welcomed the members and moderated a lively discussion where participants had the chance to get to know each other, exchange experiences, and discuss relevant issues. Paula Abreu Marques, DG ENER's Equality Coordinator introduced the Platform's aims and objectives and the work of the DG Energy’s Equality Network.

Beatriz Corredor (Chairwoman of Red Electrica) and Sarah Ouziaux (Segment Manager at Engie Impact) gave presentations on the current actions they are implementing in their companies to make their workplaces more diverse and inclusive. Colleagues from DG MOVE and CINEA also presented their equality-related initiatives such as Women in Transport – EU Platform for Change and Women in CINEA.

A lively discussion between the participants allowed for a deeper insight into the issue of inequality in the energy sector in the European Union. The discussion covered a wide range of aspects – from the need to encourage girls and young women to opt for STEM education, the benefits of institutional frameworks at the company level ensuring equality, to the importance of applying inclusive language while recruiting and communicating about jobs in the energy sector.

The first Equality Platform meeting showed that there is a high level of commitment among the member organizations to work for equality and diversity.

The next Platform meeting is planned for autumn 2022. We encourage you to become a member of the Platform and join this growing network for the next Platform meeting.