Being part of a rapidly growing renewable energy industry that is focused on achieving a more sustainable future means that the renewable energy recruitment business is booming.
JL Executive Recruitment is keen to harness this energy and develop young renewable energy recruiters to meet these future business demands when clients require support with renewable energy talent solutions.
In this blog, we explore the opportunities in this sector for graduates with an interest in renewable energy.
Renewable energy market growth
Renewable energy constitutes approximately one-third of the total global power capacity. As per the data provided by the esteemed International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in April 2022, the conclusion of 2021 witnessed a remarkable surge in the global renewable energy capacity, reaching an impressive 3,064 GW. This figure represents a notable growth of 9.1% compared to the preceding year.
According to Francesco La Camera, Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency, “Renewable energy delivers jobs, delivers on sustainable economic development and will deliver a viable climate solution. It is the competitive backbone of global energy decarbonisation.”
These international efforts to combat climate change are becoming increasingly prevalent and the renewable energy recruitment sector will witness a huge uplift over the next few years with regards to roles being available to provide renewable energy talent solutions.
Renewable energy projects encompass a broad spectrum, spanning from the construction and establishment of solar and wind farms to the erection of barriers and dams for hydroelectric power generation. These projects require the expertise of a diverse array of professionals specialising in renewable energy.
Such professionals possess a wide range of skills and backgrounds, including planners, business developers, project managers, engineers, technicians, and various others. Moreover, these individuals may be stationed in either onshore or offshore environments, depending on the nature of the project.
Renewable energy UK market potential
A record amount of energy from renewable sources was generated in the UK in 2022, according to new research. The data was analysed by academics from Imperial College London for Drax Electric Insights.
The researchers found that 40 percent of the UK’s electricity was made up of solar, wind, biomass and hydropower last year, an increase of five percent from 2021, reported The Independent. The report also found that the production of energy from fossil fuels increased in that time.
“This has been a year like no other for the energy industry. The public are feeling the pain of high gas prices on their energy bills even though renewables are providing the grid with more cheap, green electricity than ever before,” said Dr. Iain Staffell of Imperial College London, who is lead author of the Drax Electric Insights report series.
In Quarter 2 2023, solar power generated a record 5.5 TWh, a 12 percent increase on 2022. However, the total renewable generation however fell by 11 percent to 27.2 TWh, with lower wind speeds subduing generation from both onshore and offshore wind.
Since quarter 2 2022, there was 3.0 GW of new renewable capacity, of which 1.2 GW was offshore wind, 1.1 GW solar power, and 0.7 GW onshore wind. This represents a 5.8 percent increase over the last year. Renewables’ share of electricity generation was 42.1 percent in Quarter 2 2023, higher than the same quarter last year (38.7 percent) and higher than fossil fuels’ share of generation (38.8 percent).
According to The Offshore Wind Industry Council –UK Offshore Wind Skills Intelligence Report 2022 shows that offshore wind alone currently supports over 31,000 direct and indirect jobs across the UK with most (19,600) working solely in this subsector. By 2030, this will increase to over 97,000 jobs by 2030.
Renewables are going to account for a 90% net increase in global electricity capacity by 2027 and this is driven by solar energy and onshore wind, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA) has revealed through its report – Renewables 2022 and this is likely to lead to the creation of UK jobs.
Renewable energy career benefits
Over the past decade, the green energy market has experienced significant growth. As we endeavour to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and decrease our reliance on fossil fuels, the emergence of renewable energy sources has become increasingly imperative in guiding us towards a more sustainable future.
The renewable energy industry in the UK plays a pivotal role in reducing the effects of climate change. It stands at the forefront of technological advancements, offering a diverse array of career opportunities for graduates.
In summary, there are numerous compelling incentives to embark on a professional renewable energy career. These advantages extend not only to fresh graduates but also to individuals presently employed in alternative industries who may be contemplating a career transition.
- Helping to create a sustainable future: Choosing a career in renewable energy gives you the opportunity to make a difference and have a positive influence on the environment.
- Innovation: The renewable energy sector is always changing and growing, which means there are always exciting chances to work on fresh and innovative projects.
- Stability: In terms of employment stability, the renewable energy sector stands out as one of the most reliable industries. Within this field, you can confidently dedicate yourself to your role, free from the worry of budget reductions, and be presented with numerous avenues for career advancement as you further develop your expertise.
Renewable energy recruitment careers
If you share our passion for providing clean, sustainable energy and you are looking for that next step in your career, contact our expert recruitment team here?
