IIT Kanpur’s CER hosts conclave on ‘role of women’ in power sector regulation

NEW DELHI: Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur’s (IIT-K) Centre for Energy Regulation (CER) hosted a virtual conclave called “Role of Women in Power Sector Regulation” today, September 11. The conclave was hosted by stakeholders from across electricity regulatory commissions, discoms, gencos, NGOs, and academic institutions.

A virtual panel discussion with experts from the power sector, including managing director of Power Finance Corporation Parminder Chopra; chairperson of New York Public Utility Commission Audrey Zibelman; former chairman of Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission VP Raja; and former member of Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission Anjuli Chandra was held.

The panel discussion highlighted the need to adopt practices to enhance women’s participation in the power sector and promote gender inclusivity roles. Through these collaborative efforts, stakeholders aim to develop a more resilient and gender-responsive policy framework, stated an official notice.

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IIT-K CER research on ‘role of women’

Aprajita Salgotra, along with professor Anoop Singh from CER, IIT Kanpur, presented a comprehensive study on the role of women in society and their involvement in the power sector. The study delves into the gender gap within the field, identifying significant factors that contribute to the underrepresentation of women, particularly in these regulatory roles.

“The research involved an in-depth analysis of regulatory commissions across India and nine other countries, supplemented by a thorough online survey. The findings highlight cultural and social norms as major barriers to women’s participation…”, reads notice.

IIT-K CER’s Regulatory Certification Programmes

Professor Anoop Singh also announced CERs initiative of offering additional discounts for individual female participants in its upcoming Regulatory Certification Programmes (RCPs).

These online programmes are designed to provide flexibility to women, allowing them to enhance their knowledge base and advance their careers in power sector regulation. The CER’s new initiative reflects a commitment to promote gender diversity and support the professional development of women in the power sector.