Workforce and Skills for Electricity Grids

Introduction

Skilled labour is a vital resource for the energy sector in general and the electricity sector in particular. The transition from a fossil fuel-based energy system to one based on renewables also requires a workforce with the expertise to manage the characteristics of more flexible and distributed energy sources in the grid. While new job opportunities may emerge, the skill sets required may differ from those needed in the previous energy system. It is therefore essential to develop new skills in order to maintain employability in the evolving job market.

Electricity Grids and Employment

Clean energy employment is growing and expected to become a very dynamic part of labour markets, with growth more than offsetting the decline in traditional fossil fuel supply sectors. As well as creating jobs in renewable energy and energy network industries, the energy transition will increase employment in related sectors such as construction (retrofitting and energy efficient buildings) and manufacturing (efficient appliances and electric vehicles).

In 2022, the clean energy sector already employed more people than the fossil fuel sector, according to the IEA. It is notable that job vacancy rates have also risen in recent years, particularly in construction, manufacturing, utilities and other energy-related sectors.

What skills will be needed in the future?

The modernisation of the energy grid will require a diverse set of skills, including expertise in electrical engineering for the design and implementation of grid infrastructure and data analysis capabilities for managing the fluctuating supply of renewable energy. It is essential to gain knowledge in renewable energy technologies and develop project management skills to oversee the development and integration of new systems. The transition to a more complex and decentralised power system also makes digital systems and the respective skills of the workforce relevant. For smart grid infrastructures, digital and data skills will be necessary for developing, operating and maintaining reliable electricity networks.  

Further Information

• Electricity grid portal on energypedia