There must be more work to improve gender equality since this would increase diversity and inclusion in the energy industry as a whole at both the company level and the board level. To achieve greater gender equality, innovative thinking is required. A large number of skilled professionals who can contribute to the energy transition need to be trained and recruited.
Examples of Projects
Increased Gender Equality in Business
The Pilot Study (in brief): The purpose of the pilot study, Gender Mainstreaming in Dalarna's Business Community, was to increase the rate of gender equality development in Dalarna's business community. The project was led by Malin Karlsson, Dalarna University, in close collaboration with Falu Energi & Vatten, Borlänge Energi, Region Dalarna, and the Gender Academy at Karlstad University.
Project Timeframe: The study took place in 2022 (part of the project titled Energiinnovation 2.0).
Funding: Region Dalarna and The Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth
Benefits of the Pilot Study: The pilot study is expected to be a lever for regional development that has three parts:
1. Discussions on how the energy industry in Dalarna can become more gender equal and thus contribute to a more efficient energy transition. The results of the discussions are expected to lay the foundation for further work in the energy industry and may also be useful to other members of the business community in Dalarna.
2. Examine the roadmaps developed in the area of smart specialisation in Dalarna. This is to ensure that gender mainstreaming is included in such a way that it can promote innovation and regional development.
3. Arrive at a proposal as to how future gender equality work should be coordinated at the regional level.
Results upon Project Completion
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Increased activity in gender equality work in Dalarna when stakeholders are made aware of each other's work, and networks can be created where experiences and good working methods can be shared.
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Comprehensive gender equality perspectives in the roadmaps for the various areas of knowledge included in Dalarna's agenda for smart specialisation.
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Proposal for regional coordination of gender equality work in Dalarna.
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Proposals for further work where the toolbox for a more equal energy industry is tested, developed, and evaluated.
Expected Long-Term Effects
- Women and men are valued on equal terms in the business world.
- More female graduates from Dalarna University’s energy-related programmes/courses are available for employment within the region.
- Development in companies that results from women and men being valued as highly as customers.
- Development in companies that results from more women in business and industry who contribute to new ways of thinking and as such generate new products, services, and business models.
- The proportion of women on boards and in senior positions has increased in the region's business community.
