As the UK Government sets its sights on achieving ambitious net zero targets, the energy and utilities sector will play a crucial role in this green transition. However, to make these targets a reality, the sector needs a significant boost in skilled workers. By 2030, an estimated 277,000 skilled individuals will be needed in energy and utilities alone.
Skills England: Equipping the Workforce for a Green Future
The UK Government has recently launched "Skills England," a new initiative designed to bridge the green skills gap and future-proof the workforce. This programme aims to equip workers with the necessary skills to support the country’s transition to a sustainable green economy. As part of a broader effort to achieve the UK's net zero targets, Skills England focuses on several key elements:
- Green Skills Focus: The initiative prioritises the development of skills required for roles in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and other green sectors to support the UK’s net zero ambitions by 2050.
- Collaboration: Skills England engages central and local governments, businesses, and educational institutions to ensure a coordinated approach to skill development and training.
- Funding and Flexibility: The introduction of a "Growth and Skills Levy" will replace the existing Apprenticeship Levy, offering businesses more flexibility in their training budgets. This includes funding for non-apprenticeship courses and modular training to address specific skills gaps.
- Regional and Sectoral Alignment: Devolving skills funding to regional authorities will better align with local economic needs and labour markets, enhancing the relevance and impact of training programmes.
SERT’s Commitment to a Greener Workforce
At SERT, we believe that the Skills England initiative is essential not only for meeting environmental goals but also for boosting economic growth and job creation across the country. By addressing the acute skills shortages in key sectors, the UK aims to create a sustainable and inclusive green economy that offers high-quality employment opportunities.
Our CEO, Mark Edwards, shares his positive outlook on Skills England:
"Skills England is a crucial step in aligning workforce capabilities with the UK's environmental goals. By prioritising green skills development, this initiative will not only support the transition to a sustainable economy but also enhance job opportunities and economic resilience. SERT commends the government's commitment to this cause and looks forward to seeing the positive impacts on both the workforce and the environment."
The emphasis on green skills is pivotal for creating a workforce that is not only ready to meet the net zero targets but is also adaptable to future innovations and improvements in the green sector.
Looking Forward
The ambitious 10-point plan announced by the UK Government aims to underpin a green revival in jobs and infrastructure. This includes generating energy from offshore wind, using hydrogen in homes and businesses, installing millions of heat pumps, building electric vehicle charging points, and advancing carbon capture and nuclear power projects. All these efforts depend on having a skilled and ready workforce.
At SERT, we are committed to supporting this transition by providing top-notch training and recruitment services to ensure that the energy and utilities sector has the skilled professionals it needs. By working together, we can build a sustainable future that benefits both the economy and the environment.
For further details, you can refer to sources such as FE News and Green Alliance, which provide comprehensive coverage on the initiative and its implications for the UK’s workforce and green transition.
Let’s work together to create a greener, more sustainable future for all!