A new taskforce has been established to improve Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) across the energy industry.
Jointly supported by Energy Network Alliance, Energy UK and Ofgem, the Tackling Inclusion and Diversity in Energy (TIDE) taskforce will collaborate with existing groups to improve EDI across the energy industry.
The taskforce will run initially for 18 months after which a review will take place to determine if it should continue.
TIDE launched with ten initial members at the annual EDI conference in June earlier this year where the group also received feedback from delegates on suggested priorities.
With the feedback now having been reviewed, three priorities have been identified that the organisation will focus on. This includes insight gathering and benchmarking, sharing practical tools for best practice and engaging with leaders to drive change.
To achieve this, the taskforce has revealed it will expand its member list opening up positions for a further ten organisations to join.
TIDE state that it is hoped the phased approach will enable the group to engage with people who can bring skills to support delivery against the priorities and provide opportunities for people who may not already have visibility within industry but have valuable experience and ideas.
Specific roles are also looking to be filled by TIDE. These include supply chain liaison, government liaison and industry EDI groups liaison.
Celia Anderson, offshore wind skills strategy lead at RWE and Chair of TIDE, said: “Improving EDI is not just about doing the right thing, it makes business sense. It needs to be embedded in organisational strategies as a business priority, and so it’s essential we engage with leaders to drive change across the energy industry.
“We know it will take time to see tangible results as culture change doesn’t happen overnight, but there are many simple steps companies can take immediately that will make a difference.
“I am hopeful that by working collaboratively, connecting with the right people, and sharing knowledge and best practice we can take actions now that will drive long-term improvements.”
