Skopje, 9 February 2026 (MIA) - The energy transition is not only a technological process, but also a deep transformation of the labor force, in which countries must play an equal and visible role, said Minister of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources Sanja Bozhinovska at an event Monday organized within the ELeVATE (2025-2028) project dedicated to empowering and supporting women and girls’ career development in the sectors of net zero technologies, smart energy systems, and green transition.

Bozhinovska stressed that women in the energy sector are still underrepresented. She noted this does not mean a lack of knowledge or ambition, but rather that there is untapped potential which the state and society must not ignore.

“The 2022 gender equality index stood at 64.5 points out of a possible 100, which represents an increase of just 2.5 points from 2019. At this pace, we would need nearly 57 years to reach gender equality in all areas. This highlights the urgency: we must not wait for decades to create equal opportunities. More women in the sector is a benefit for all. Data from the International Renewable Energy Agency shows that organizations with more women in leadership positions in energy show 20 percent higher performances and innovations. The World Economic Forum published that teams that include different sexes are more profitable, more creative, and more resilient during crises. When women are given power, the entire sector and society benefits,” Bozhinovska said.

The Minister also noted the country’s strategic priorities for 2026-2030, including accelerated development of renewable energy sources, energy efficiency of buildings and digitization of the electricity infrastructure, processes which, she said, will directly shape the labor market and the demand for new profiles and skills.

“Net-zero technologies require experts on renewables, specialists for smart buildings and automatization, digital engineers, energy efficiency managers and smart grid professionals. Our task is for more women to be a part of this new economy,” Bozhinovska said.

Bozhinovska said the Ministry is firmly committed to supporting girls and women in STEM and energy sectors through practical training, partnerships with businesses, mentoring networks, and programs that bring education and the sector together.

“The energy transition will be successful only if it is inclusive – if it includes women, if it creates equal opportunities, and if it connects education, businesses, and institutions,” Minister Bozhinovska said.

MIA file photo