Closing the people gaps

Empowering communities for just and inclusive energy transitions

As the world accelerates toward a future requiring more and better energy, one critical element is often overlooked: people. Progressing successful energy transitions is not simply a technological or financial challenge, but a fundamentally human one. Without the active engagement, empowerment, and inclusion of people and communities – and full consideration for consumer demand - the promise of clean, reliable, and affordable energy for all will remain out of reach.

As the world’s energy leaders look towards World Energy Congress 2026 next October in Riyadh, the importance of human intelligence and engagement is becoming increasingly clear.

Why people must be at the centre of energy transitions

People-centric energy transitions recognise that individuals and communities are not just passive recipients of new technologies or policies - they are active agents of change. Placing people at the centre of transitions delivers better outcomes – from demand-led transformations to solutions grounded in local realities. Beyond democratising energy systems, giving users greater control and influence over their energy choices both ensures that the benefits of transitions are distributed equitably and increases the likelihood that policies, financing and technological solutions will be successful.

The power of community engagement

Community engagement is more than a box-ticking exercise, it is a strategic necessity for successful, equitable, and sustainable energy transitions. Early and consistent engagement builds trust, prevents conflicts, and fosters a sense of ownership and shared responsibility. When communities are consulted from the outset, they are more likely to support projects and less likely to resist change, reducing costly delays and legal disputes.

Engaged communities also bring invaluable local knowledge, creativity, and innovation to the table. Their insights can help optimise project design, minimise environmental impacts, and maximise local benefits.

Energy literacy and empowerment

Informed citizens are powerful agents of change. On the other hand, a widespread lack of energy literacy can be a major barrier to inclusive. Educational initiatives, workshops, and public forums can bridge this gap, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and actively participate in shaping their energy futures. Higher energy literacy fosters a more participatory population, capable of advocating for their needs and holding stakeholders accountable.

Demand as a super-power: smarter and wiser energy uses

As digitalisation and decentralisation transform energy systems, demand is emerging not as a constraint, but as a strategic asset. Smarter and more responsive energy use, enabled by data, automation, and behavioural change, empowers consumers to play an active role in balancing the grid and accelerating cleaner transitions.

Equity, access, and social inclusion

Despite global progress, energy poverty remains a stark reality: hundreds of millions still lack access to electricity or clean cooking solutions. Just energy transitions must prioritise these populations, ensuring that modern energy systems are accessible, stable, reliable, and affordable for all. This includes targeted efforts to reach women, youth, and marginalised groups, who are often left out of traditional energy planning but stand to gain the most from improved access.

Empowering women and underrepresented groups as energy entrepreneurs, decision-makers, and users is especially impactful. Their participation not only enhances social inclusion but also drives innovation and accelerates the adoption of sustainable energy solutions.

From inclusion to empowerment: the social dividend

Beyond the commercial benefits, a people-centric approach to energy transitions delivers far-reaching social benefits:

• Poverty alleviation: Improved access to clean energy creates opportunities for economic growth, education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, particularly in underserved regions.
• Job creation and skills development: Millions of new jobs will be created in the green economy, but only if communities are supported with training, reskilling, and upskilling opportunities.
• Stronger, more resilient communities: Local ownership and participation build resilience, foster shared values, and ensure that the transition respects human rights and cultural traditions.

People as drivers of energy transitions

Energy transitions are ultimately about people - about creating a future where everyone enjoys the benefits of clean, affordable, and reliable energy that can enable  flourishing lives. By convening leadership dialogues that put people at the heart of the conversation, World Energy Congress 2026 will catalyse a just, inclusive, and sustainable energy future. Empowered communities are not just beneficiaries; they are the true drivers of successful energy transitions.