The energy transition is a profound societal transformation that goes beyond technological solutions. This discussion paper focuses on the question of how a just, inclusive, and democratic energy transition can succeed if diversity is understood as a key resource.

The energy transition operates within a field of tension: on the one hand, there is ecological modernization with an emphasis on technology and the market economy; on the other, there is the socio-ecological transformation that challenges power relations, the distribution of resources, and ways of living. Citizen energy is a potentially transformative practice that can promote structural change through democratic participation and a focus on the common good, but it can also reproduce existing inequalities. The authors focus on approaches to mobilizing citizens who have so far been largely excluded – in particular FLINTA (women, lesbians, intersex, non-binary, trans and agender people).

The paper develops an intersectional analytical framework that incorporates various concepts of justice (distributive, procedural, recognition-based and compensatory justice) as well as feminist, anti-racist and postcolonial perspectives. The aim is to make visible the interplay of power relations, patriarchal structures and androcentric norms.

The analysis shows that existing participation strategies have so far failed to sufficiently dismantle gender-specific exclusions, for example in leadership roles or investment opportunities. FLINTA are underrepresented in many areas of citizen energy – from private prosumer activities to professional leadership positions. Structural barriers such as unequal care work, stereotypical role patterns and a lack of resources play a role here, as do insufficient support and awareness.

An integrated approach that combines socio-political measures with internal organizational strategies is needed to effectively address these inequalities. The proposed analytical framework evaluates projects using both reflexive (e.g. understandings of transformation and justice) and performative (e.g. concrete strategies and practices) criteria. This makes it possible to reveal transformative potentials and identify political levers for action.