Powering Energy and Social Benefits in El Salvador

This case study highlights the various ways in which LaGeo—a geothermal energy utility in El Salvador—developed strategies throughout its corporate mission and operations to adhere to national laws on gender equality and national development goals, resulting in environmental, social, and women’s empowerment outcomes, as well as positive impacts on business outcomes.

This case study shows how utilities can increase gender equality and promote women’s empowerment through institutional policies, examining management structures, and utilizing corporate social responsibility (CSR). It also highlights how LaGeo used CSR initiatives across numerous impact areas, such as livelihood activities, reforestation and mitigation efforts, social infrastructure development, conservation work, education, and health initiatives to demonstrate the benefits of geothermal energy in delivering environmental sustainability and employment. In turn, these efforts build strong community relations to help mitigate and prevent vandalism. The case provides recommendations and selected resources for further reading that other companies, across sectors, might consider.

This energy sector case study is produced through USAID’s Advancing Gender in the Environment (AGENT) program, showcasing advancements towards the achievement of gender equality in the energy sector. It was developed with the guidance and support of the Gender and Renewable Energy (G-REEN) network of experts hosted by the AGENT program.

USAID’s Advancing Gender in the Environment (AGENT) Program

AGENT is a ten-year program launched by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in 2014 and implemented by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The purpose of the partnership is to increase the effectiveness of USAID’s environment programming through the robust integration of gender considerations, improving gender equality and women’s empowerment outcomes in a broad range of environmental sectors. Recognizing women as agents of change, and the value of diverse knowledge, experiences and capacities of women and men alike, AGENT envisions a world that approaches environmental work at all levels with gender-responsive policy and action. AGENT drives transformation toward a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Additional Briefs from USAID’s AGENT Program

• Making the Case for Women in the Energy Sector
• Gender Equality in Large-Scale Renewable Energy Infrastructure Development

For More Information

• USAID Energy: EmPOWERing Women and Girls
• Advancing Gender in the Environment (AGENT)