As the Offshore Renewables Industry continues to expand, the need for a skilled and competent workforce is becoming increasingly vital. Supporting the skills for the sector is Energy & Utility Skills, the recognised standard-setting body for the power, gas, water, and waste management industries. As we extend our expertise to the Offshore Renewables sector, we are proud to lead the way in defining the skills and training necessary for its continued growth.
A Partnership to Meet the Workforce Requirements
In partnership with RenewableUK, we have taken significant steps to identify and address the skills and training needs within the Offshore Wind sector. This initiative will develop national occupational standards, apprenticeship standards, frameworks and other short courses and modular training programs. Each of these efforts will support the upskilling and reskilling of both new entrants and existing workers, ensuring that the UK’s renewables sector has the skilled workforce it needs to succeed.
“Having established our partnership with Energy & Utility Skills late last year, we have been delighted to see the relationship go from strength to strength, both in terms of how we work together and the nature and tone of Energy & Utility Skills’ work with our members and the wider industry. On the development of national occupational standards and apprenticeship standards, and in their contributions to our own skills work. The Energy & Utility Skills team brings a genuine approach to collaboration, great enthusiasm, professionalism, expertise, and insight which we have really valued – and in addition, they’ve been great fun to work with!” Says Scott Young, Head of Skills for Renewables, RenewableUK.
Setting the Standards for Offshore Wind
In collaboration with industry, we have successfully reviewed and updated the Wind Turbine National Occupational Standards (NOS) suite. Now published on the NOS Database, these standards specify the skills and knowledge expected for individuals working in the preassembly, operation, and maintenance of plant and apparatus on onshore and offshore wind turbine facilities.
This achievement ensures that the workforce is equipped with the latest competencies required to meet the unique demands of the wind energy sector.
Expanding Support Across the Renewables Sector
Energy & Utility Skills’ commitment to the renewables sector extends beyond Offshore Wind. Our involvement with the NSAP power generation group has led to the recent development and agreement of the HVDC competency standard at the introductory level. This achievement underscores our dedication to creating comprehensive standards across the renewables industry.
Our role in the energy and utilities sector goes beyond setting standards. We are committed to improving Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and enhancing sector attraction and retention. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is key to the long-term success of the renewables sector.
Clear Pathways for Priority Roles
As part of our ongoing support for the industry, we are currently working on a comprehensive occupational mapping project focusing on 15 priority roles within the Offshore Wind sector.
This project will set clear standards and pathways for these key roles, ensuring the industry has the skilled professionals it needs to thrive.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of the Offshore Renewables Sector If you want to be part of shaping the future of the Offshore Renewables industry, we encourage you to join us. For more information or to get involved, please reach out to us by emailing: stephen.barrett@euskills.co.uk