This issue brief identifies the 10 most relevant, urgent, and probable human rights impacts for businesses operating in the power and utilities sector... The power and utilities sector comprises a wide range of businesses and activities, from electricity and heat, gas, waste, and water utilities to different actors in the energy markets, like power producers and energy developers...

[1] Emergency response & community safety:... The private sector is not only responsible for preventing and mitigating accidents and emergencies related to its operations, but for also participating in remedy mechanisms should they occur to ensure that their negative impacts are rectified... [4] Employee discrimination:.. This sector has historically been male-dominated... respecting employees’ rights means securing equal opportunities for every member of their diverse workforce... [6] Land acquisition & resettlement:... [there is a] risk that local communities may not be adequately consulted or compensated, especially in autocratic countries or where resettlement is forced. Indigenous communities are particularly vulnerable to these impacts, and companies are expected to adhere to the principle of “free, prior, and informed consent” when carrying out projects on indigenous lands... [10]... Effective grievance mechanisms are essential to prevent adverse consequences and offer remedy when negative impacts cannot be avoided... The top 3 opportunities for positive impact [include]: providing access to energy, water and sanitation; promoting economic and social development; and empowering women.