In the energy sector, the gender dimensions of access to services, access to benefits, and exposure to risks and benefits, are being increasingly recognized as important elements to be considered for effective policy making and project design. In practice, this translates into integrating a gender perspective throughout the operational cycle to improve gender equity in project participation, benefits and opportunities. The objective of this briefing note is to provide World Bank energy task teams a brief overview of the key issues, resources and tools to help integrate gender considerations into energy sector operations.

This briefing note discusses the key elements of the “gender in energy” topic and provides specific examples on “how to” integrate gender considerations in energy policy dialogue and the project cycle. This note draws on recent experience within the World Bank and elsewhere in mainstreaming gender in energy projects. It aims to consolidate this knowledge and make it available to energy practitioners addressing gender aspects of energy projects. This note is complemented by a compendium of online resources to provide energy teams with basic tools, such as sample questionnaires, Terms of Reference, and screening guidance, as well as reference material on gender and energy. These resources have been developed by drawing on the experience of ESMAP’s Africa Renewable Energy and Access (AFREA) gender and energy program, where gender considerations have been integrated into five energy operations in Senegal, Mali, Benin, Tanzania and Kenya. The resources are available on ESMAP’s website (http://www.esmap.org/EnergyandGender)