Abstract
Actual crises like for example the COVID pandemic reveal structural problems we are facing that have been existing for a long time, as for example processes in technology development and production as well as innovation processes which are not sustainable. On the other hand these crisis also create new opportunities for redefining and rethinking existing strategies.
Research in Gender and Science and Technology Studies have revealed the manifold interrelations and interdependencies between technology development, innovation processes and society as well as the consequences if they are not taken into account. And they have demonstrated the great potential including such perspectives in research and innovation processes for responsible research and innovation. The talk will discuss the potential of integrating gender and diversity perspectives into research and innovation processes, in terms of excellence, creativity and business opportunities. Questioning gender norms and stereotypes standards and reference models have to be rethought. In doing so it can lead to better address the diverse needs of users, foster diversity in the energy sector, and enhance the societal relevance of the knowledge, technologies and innovations produced in this field.