Industry must add 12,000 people a year to meet net zero 2050 targets
A report by the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Green Jobs Task Force has revealed the extent of ‘levelling up’ required to meet the UK’s Net Zero Carbon target by 2050.
Leading electrotechnical and engineering services body ECA broadly supports the measures outlined in the report to increase investment in renewable energy, electricity networks, smart technologies and retrofitting existing building stock. However, ECA finds the recommendations in the report too focused on private sector support.
The organisation believes the onus should be on the Government to support the ‘levelling-up’ of the industry’s workforce and the efficient and safe installation of low-to-no-carbon technologies. Luke Osborne, ECA’s Energy Solutions Advisor, said, “There is an enormous amount to accomplish in an ever-shorter timeframe. We will need all hands on deck to get at least 12,000 new workers properly trained every year for the next four years to meet estimated demand. It is critical that, as an industry on the front line of the climate crisis, we get this right.
“As well as more Government-led funding, we must ensure the right training is accessible to everyone who wants to join the fight against the climate crisis, wherever they live in the UK. Access to high quality training and skills should not be a postcode lottery.”
Andrew Eldred, ECA’s Director of Employment and Skills, said, “Getting the electrotechnical industry ready to support the efficient and safe installation of new technologies shouldn’t just be down to individuals, as this report implies.
“In a sector where 93% of all businesses employ just nine people or less, we need stronger collaboration between industry, Government and education to achieve a huge uplift in the number of apprentices and career changers coming through.
“Compared to other trades, electrotechnical does well to secure around 6,000 new apprentice starts most years - 85% with small, non-levy employers. This is just a fraction of the numbers hired in Germany. Current recruitment rates fall well short of the demand for net zero-ready workers.”
This article was originally submitted as a press release from ECA. It was received on 13 September 2021.
--ECA
[edit] Related articles
Featured articles and news
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.