New research paves the way for achieving net-zero energy workforce

New research from Engineers Australia reveals key findings that will help ensure the successful transition of energy jobs and skills from coal, oil and gas to renewables.

Research conducted in partnership with Mott MacDonald shows that the path to net zero emissions for workers in the energy sector is possible with additional support and better coordination.

“We know that skilled engineers are already taking their wealth of experience and applying it to roles in clean energy areas such as renewables. The legacy of the coal, oil and gas sector is that professionals who worked in these sectors are now contributing to net zero emissions industries. This may be through moving into new roles in the clean energy sector or using their skills to promote sustainable practices in their current industry,” says Romilly Madew, CEO of Engineers Australia.

“While many navigate this transformation, employers are providing new insights into what is needed to ensure that no one is left behind and that thriving communities can continue to be centers of work and families in the future,” Madew notes.

The most important conclusions from the research:

Employment

As employers value attitude and skills over specific disciplinary experience, transferring skills to the clean energy sector is feasible. Engineers moving from thermal to renewables roles can leverage existing skills while developing skills in areas such as stakeholder management, community engagement and negotiation.

Geographical Considerations

Building clean energy industries in communities with existing thermal energy workers can prevent significant displacement and encourage retention. Engineers are more likely to stay in the profession if they can find employment locally. Remote work and automation create opportunities for flexible work locations.

Engineers’ Workforce

Given the growing global demand for engineers, overseas recruitment is becoming less cost-effective. This can be addressed by re-engaging skilled engineers who are currently out of work, particularly women, older Australians and migrant engineers already in Australia. Promoting the environmental benefits of the clean energy industry and addressing the pay gap between the energy and renewable sectors can attract and retain a pool of engineers.

Training Paths

Integrating sustainability into all university and professional engineering courses, rather than offering separate degrees, can prepare engineers for clean energy roles from the very beginning of their careers. Micro-qualifications can ease transitions between sectors and demystify industry jargon and standards, increasing confidence and competence.

Policy Recommendations

Governments can play a key role by better defining job profiles and updating job classifications to reflect new roles in the renewables sector. Policy support is essential to drive innovation, align initiatives across government levels, and implement systemic changes that encourage skill transfer and workforce expansion.

According to Madew, there is a huge opportunity for political and industry leaders to develop and promote policies that help ensure skills transfer where investment is already taking place.

“Let’s do even better at recruiting, retention and re-engagement. Investing in people and showing them opportunities to leverage their existing skills is key to keeping existing communities thriving. Better training paths and micro-credentials will also go a long way to supporting these career transitions,” he says.

Image: The Conversation