Energy UK is showcasing the steps that have been taken to increase diversity among minority groups within the sector.
The industry body held a roundtable yesterday (12 July) on diversity and inclusion in the energy industry to discuss issues from gender balance, BAME representation to LGBT+ networks and disability inclusion.
The event was attended by employment minister Alok Sharma along with representatives from Centrica, Drax, EDF Energy, Eon, Npower, Orsted, Octopus Energy, Robin Hood Energy, RWE, Scottish Power Renewables, SSE and Shell.
Sharma discussed the activity companies have been taking to increase diversity in their organisations and tackle the barriers preventing a “truly inclusive” workforce.
Energy UK also launched its Diversity and Inclusion in Energy publication which provides a snapshot of the wide-range of activity already underway in the energy sector to increase the opportunities for those from underrepresented groups including women, young and older people, black and ethnic minorities and people with long and short-term disabilities.
Sharma said: “The UK employment rate has never been higher with record rates of employment among women and black, Asian and minority ethnic groups.
“On top of this youth unemployment is down 40 per cent since 2010. But we can do even better. Everyone, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to do the work they want and reach their full potential.
“I’m incredibly encouraged that the energy sector has placed such importance on creating a truly diverse workforce and by the efforts they are already taking to tackle the issue.
“We all know there is more to do and sharing best practice across the industry is an important part of reaching our shared goal to make sure we have a level playing field.”
Abbie Sampson, Energy UK’s director of external affairs, agreed there was more to do in the industry but added there is a “huge opportunity” to be realised.
She said: “At Energy UK, we are being proactive and showing leadership across the sector, most recently launching a new equality and diversity forum to bring the sector together, share best practice and highlight successes in driving change.
“By highlighting and building on all the good work already underway there is a huge opportunity to be realised – accessing an untapped resource of skills for the industry and giving more people the opportunity to work in an exciting industry at the forefront of innovation and technological development.”