Energy justice and gender implications on prodcutive uses of energy. A case study based in rural Bolivia

Abstract: This research investigates the gender dimension of the impacts of access to clean and modern energy and technology in productive uses of energy. Rural organizations led by women supported by the EnDev project Bolivia were selected for a multi-site case study. This project aims to facilitate clean and modern energy access, create and strengthen rural markets, and alleviate poverty. The energy justice framework was employed to gain a comprehensive understanding of how gender intersects with access to energy and technology, distribution, decision-making and recognition. To address the critique of the energy justice framework for not considering intersectionality, a socio-ecological model (SEM) was used to examine effects on individual, interpersonal, organizational, and communal levels. Overall, the EnDev project contributes to promoting energy justice by reducing technology costs, supplying energy needs through grid connection or solar energy, and promoting energy-efficient technologies. The findings indicate that women perceive themselves as more empowered and self-confident because of the interventions. The performance of the rural organizations improved as a result of the interventions, leading to increased income for women. This economic empowerment, combined with a sense of self-confidence, has influenced their status within their households and communities. However, comprehensive support is required for women to fully realize their potential. This includes capacity building in technology, business skills, leadership, marketing, and access to finance. Moreover, societal, and cultural obstacles such as restricted access to finance, education, and caregiving responsibilities must be addressed. The research highlights the transformative potential of any energy intervention in rural areas in terms of power dynamics and gender norms. It also underscores the limitations of the energy justice framework regarding the lack of intersectionality. Consequently, the author proposes a framework combining both energy justice perspectives and the SEM employed in this research. This framework aims to inform strategies, interventions, and policies that not only ensure equitable distribution of energy resources but also address gender biases and promote inclusivity.