Articles

The paper critically examines the assumption that access to electricity (SDG 7) inherently promotes gender equality (SDG 5). It finds that the gendered impacts of electricity access vary widely—sometimes empowering women, but other times reinforcing existing inequalities. To better understand these dynamics, the authors develop a new theoretical framework that merges: Gender Studies insights on gender as performative, intersectional, and shaped by power relations. Social Practice Theory, which explores how electricity gains meaning through its role in everyday practices. This framework is applied to case studies in rural Guatemala (patriarchal) and rural Colombia (matrilineal), revealing how cultural context shapes outcomes. The paper also introduces an 8-step methodology for applying this framework in practice. Ultimately, the study offers tools for designing context-sensitive energy policies that are more likely to advance gender equality.