The minister of energy, mining and mineral resources, Sanja Bozhinovska, addressed at an event organized within the ELeVATE project (2025–2028), dedicated to encouraging and supporting girls and women to develop careers in the sectors of net-zero technologies, smart energy systems and the green transition.
In her speech, the minister emphasized that the energy transition is not only a technological process, but also a profound transformation of the workforce, whereas women must have equal and visible role.
„Women in energy are still underrepresented. This does not mean a lack of knowledge or ambition, but rather an untapped potential that the state and society must not ignore. The Gender Equality Index in 2022 was 64,5 points out of a possible 100, which represents an increase of only 2,5 points since 2019. At this pace, it would take approximately 57 years to achieve gender equality in all areas. This highlights the urgency: we cannot wait for decades to create equal opportunities. More women in the sector is a benefit for everyone. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) found that organizations with more women in leadership positions in energy show 20 percent higher performance and innovation. The World Economic Forum revealed that teams that include diverse genders are more profitable, more creative and more resilient in crisis situations. When women are given power, the entire sector and society benefit “, Bozhinovska pointed out.
She emphasized that girls show interest in science and technology from an early age, but this interest is often lost due to stereotypes, lack of support and limited access to practical opportunities. Therefore, as she stated, it is necessary to create a clear and continuous pathway–from education, through practical training to employment and career advancement.
„These barriers are not insurmountable. We overcome them through partnerships, through projects like this, through open dialogue and through concrete programs that bring young women closer to the real sector “, Bozhinovska stated.
The minister also highlighted the state’s strategic priorities for the period 2026–2030, including accelerated development of renewable energy sources, energy efficiency of the buildings and digitalization of the electricity infrastructure-processes that will directly shape the labor market and the demand for new profiles and skills.
„Net-zero emission technologies will require experts in renewables, specialists in smart buildings and automation, digital engineers, energy efficiency managers and smart grid professionals. Our task is to ensure that as many women as possible are part of this new economy”, Bozhinovska highlighted.
She stressed that the Ministry of energy is strongly committed to supporting girls and women in STEM and energy sectors through practical trainings, partnerships with companies, mentoring networks and programs that connect education with the real sector.
The ELeVATE project, which connects educational institutions, companies, the public sector and local authorities, was highlighted as an example of a concrete and applicable model that overcomes barriers and creates real opportunities for women in green technologies.
„The energy transition will be successful only if it is inclusive–if it includes women, if it creates equal opportunities and connects education, business and institutions“, minister Bozhinovska said.
With regards,
Ministry of energy, mining and mineral resources
