The emerging renewable energy industry is being supported by new peak industry bodies which are combining their energies and pushing the contribution of women.
Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC) and Women In Sustainable Energy & Resources (WISER) have combined to lead the State’s transition to 80 percent renewable energy by 2035.
The Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan had projected 64,000 jobs to build the SuperGrid and 36,000 more jobs across key sectors of the economy by 2040, with most positions based in regional Queensland said QREC Chief Executive Officer, Katie-Anne Mulder.
There were opportunities emerging for all Queenslanders, including women, in the growth of clean energy across the State said Ms Mulder.
Main image: Joanne Bergamin (WISER), Katie Anne Mulder (QREC)
Leveraging women’s participation as change agents could accelerate the energy transformation, she said.
“This partnership with WISER is very timely as QREC works with its members – including owners, investors, developers, suppliers and service providers for renewable energy projects – on requirements for their project pipeline,” she said.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Joanne Bergamin, the Chair of WISER, over many years.
“There are strong synergies between QREC members’ efforts and WISER’s priorities to shape their members’ futures through professional development, mentorship, and support, while driving gender balance and strong representation for women in leadership positions in renewables.”
The network intentionally partners with organisations and associations like QREC, which share its focus, said Ms Bergamin.
“Like QREC, WISER is committed to a partnership-based approach for the clean energy transition, fuelled by a diverse workforce,” She said.