Without the use of a social justice lens for energy planning, large-scale renewable energy projects can be environmentally damaging and may do little tc enhance gender equality. Decision-making in the energy sector often excludes women, and policies are mostly gender-unaware. In many cases they are creating their own pathways to clean energy technology that level the playing field in regard to economic and social opportunity. It has the potential to reduce development initiatives directed at gender and energy since the deep inequalities in the energy sector cannot easily be quantified. Enabling the creation of local renewable energy user groups and co-operatives, and empowering women to fully participate all levels of decision-making, is essential for sustainable energy.