Queensland renewables sector gets WISER

Queensland’s only dedicated renewable energy industry body is partnering with the fast-growing WISER (Women In Sustainable Energy & Resources) network to ensure women are encouraged and supported to join and lead the State’s transition to 80% renewable energy by 2035.

Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC) Chief Executive Officer, Katie-Anne Mulder said there were enormous opportunities emerging for all Queenslanders, including women, in the growth of clean energy across the State.

Ms Mulder acknowledged the historical male dominance in the energy industry globally but emphasised that, as noted by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), leveraging women’s participation as change agents can accelerate the energy transformation.

“This partnership with WISER is very timely as QREC works with its members – including owners, investors, developers, suppliers and service providers for renewable energy projects – on requirements for their project pipeline.  The Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan has projected 64,000 jobs to build the SuperGrid and 36,000 more jobs across key sectors of the economy by 2040, with most positions based in regional Queensland”.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Joanne Bergamin, the Chair of WISER, over many years. There are strong synergies between QREC members’ efforts and WISER’s priorities to shape their members’ futures through professional development, mentorship, and support, while driving gender balance and strong representation for women in leadership positions in renewables,” Ms Mulder said.

WISER Chair, Joanne Bergamin said the network intentionally partners with organisations and associations like QREC, which share its focus on sustainability and actively supporting women in the industry.

“Like QREC, WISER is committed to a partnership-based approach for the clean energy transition, fuelled by a diverse workforce,” Ms Bergamin said.