Green skills drive launched to train 'thousands' of workers

The government has announced plans to invest in green skills training to support the transition to clean energy, which is expected to create "thousands" of new jobs. Aberdeen, Cheshire, Lincolnshire, and Pembrokeshire have been identified as key areas for clean energy development.

As part of the plan to achieve UK energy security and utilize clean energy by 2030, these regions will receive funding to determine the support needed to train more workers. In addition, an "Energy Skills Passport" portal has been launched to help workers in the oil and gas industry transition to the renewable energy sector.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband stated that the plan will protect people from the "rollercoaster of fossil fuel markets" and "reindustrialize Britain" with thousands of well-paying jobs in the clean energy sector. He emphasized, "We are working with communities, businesses, and trade unions to train workers in the UK so that we can seize the opportunities that clean energy offers."

Earlier this week, the head of one of the UK's largest wind turbine manufacturers stated that up to 500,000 workers are needed in the coming years to meet net-zero targets. Darren Davidson, head of Siemens Energy UK and Ireland, said the green skills gap is one of the biggest challenges the industry faces during a period of "unprecedented growth." In the first round of funding, West Cheshire and Chester, North and North East Lincolnshire, and Pembrokeshire will each receive around £1 million.

A spokesperson said that a significant amount of skills identification work has already been carried out in Aberdeen. North East Lincolnshire Council stated that around 32,000 jobs could be created in the Humber region by 2040 due to green energy creation, decarbonization, and hydrogen opportunities. The council's leader, Philip Jackson, said, "We know the demand is there and we do have a skills gap that must be addressed. I am delighted that this has been recognized." The leader of West Cheshire and Chester Council, Louise Gittins, said the initiative will play a "crucial role" in the transition from carbon-intensive industries to the clean energy sector.

Welsh Energy Minister Rebecca Evans said this is an example of working together to unlock opportunities, create green jobs, and achieve energy security. Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said the new Energy Skills Passport will support "our world-class offshore workforce, making us a clean energy superpower." This follows the government's confirmation of a contract for the UK's first carbon capture project in Teesside.