The effect of energy poverty on gender inequality in Southern Asian countries

Purpose - The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between gender inequality and energy poverty in Southeast Asian countries from 2000 to 2020. The study aims to assess the long-term impact of gender inequality on energy poverty by considering factors such as per capita gross domestic production (GDP), population growth and gross capital formation. By analyzing these variables, the research seeks to shed light on the disproportionate burden women face in energy-poor regions and to provide insights into how addressing energy poverty can promote gender equality and sustainable development in the region. Design/methodology/approach - This study uses a dynamic generalized method of moments (GMM) model to analyze the long-term cointegration between gender inequality and energy poverty in Southeast Asian countries. The data, sourced from World Data Indicators, spans from 2000 to 2020, including variables such as GDP, population growth and gross capital formation. Proxy measures for energy poverty and gender inequality were developed using access to electricity, clean cooking technologies and female employment statistics. Stationarity tests and cointegration analyses were conducted to ensure the validity of the results, confirming the relationships among the variables for the region studied. Findings - The study finds a significant positive relationship between gender inequality and energy poverty in Southeast Asian countries. Higher levels of gender inequality are associated with increased energy poverty, with women disproportionately affected due to reliance on traditional cooking methods. The dynamic GMM model confirms this long-term cointegration, showing that economic growth initially increases energy poverty but reduces it as nations invest in sustainable energy. Population growth has a negative association with energy poverty, suggesting that development and infrastructure improvements mitigate its effects. These findings highlight the need for gender-sensitive energy policies in the region. Originality/value - This study offers a novel contribution by empirically examining the long-term relationship between gender inequality and energy poverty in Southeast Asian countries, an underexplored area in existing literature. Using a dynamic GMM approach, it highlights the disproportionate burden women face due to energy poverty, particularly through traditional cooking methods. The research provides valuable insights into how addressing energy poverty can promote gender equality, offering practical policy recommendations for sustainable development. Its findings serve as a foundation for policymakers to craft gender-sensitive energy interventions that enhance both social equity and economic growth in developing regions.