Daily News
Assistance for Workers to Access Thousands of Clean Energy Jobs
Workers across the UK will gain access to government-funded training programmes, enabling them to take advantage of thousands of new job opportunities in the clean energy sector. This initiative forms part of the government’s “Plan for Change” and its mission to establish the UK as a clean energy superpower.
Key regions for clean energy growth, including Aberdeen, Cheshire, Lincolnshire and Pembrokeshire, have been highlighted for their thriving offshore wind, nuclear and solar industries. Local partners in these areas will receive funding to identify and address the specific skills needed to achieve clean power generation by 2030.
At the heart of this initiative is the introduction of a ‘skills passport,’ an online tool aimed at helping workers, particularly those in the oil and gas sectors, match their existing skills to roles in renewable energy industries. Initially, the passport focuses on guiding workers toward offshore wind jobs, such as those in construction and maintenance, with plans to expand into other renewable sectors over the next year. Developed in partnership with RenewableUK, Offshore Energies UK and the Scottish Government, the passport highlights a commitment to delivering a just transition for workers.
Ed Miliband, the UK energy secretary, said: “Our Plan for Change to deliver clean power is not just about protecting households and businesses from the roller coaster of fossil fuel markets, it is also about reindustrialising Britain with thousands of well-paid, good union jobs in industrial communities.”
The government has allocated around £1 million in funding to each of the initial regions to support training programmes, develop new courses and provide career guidance. This investment is designed to address skill shortages in critical areas such as welding, electrical engineering and construction, which are essential for building the infrastructure needed to achieve clean energy goals.
The government’s clean energy transition plan is set to generate £40 billion in annual investment and create thousands of jobs, driving the re-industrialisation of regions across the UK. In addition to economic benefits, this transition aims to protect households and businesses from the instability of fossil fuel markets while advancing the country’s net-zero emissions targets.
According to research by Offshore Energies UK, 90% of oil and gas workers possess transferable skills suited for roles in renewable energy. By harnessing this expertise, the initiative aims to retain valuable talent within the UK’s workforce. The Institute is committed to promoting knowledge sharing and best practice with our CPD accredited training courses and pathways, helping you advance your career within the renewables sector.
Sources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/support-for-workers-to-benefit-from-thousands-of-clean-power-jobs