Renewable energy is one of the fastest growing industries in the world, and its workforce is rapidly expanding. As the industry expands, so do the hiring and workforce trends that shape it. Companies will need to adapt to keep up with changing trends and demands.
By staying on top of these hiring and workforce trends, renewable energy firms can entice and retain highly skilled professionals and position themselves for sustainable long-term growth and success in a rapidly growing industry. This blog will explore 20 renewable energy hiring and workforce trends to watch for in 2023.
1. The Rise of Energy Storage
Energy storage is becoming increasingly important in the renewable energy sector. With the growth of green energy sources like wind and solar, the need for reliable energy storage solutions is becoming more pressing. As a result, there will be an increased demand for skilled workers who can design, install, and maintain energy storage systems.
2. Demand for Cybersecurity Professionals
The renewable energy industry is not immune to cybersecurity threats. As the industry becomes more digitized and connected, the cyber-attack risk increases. Renewable energy companies must hire cybersecurity professionals to protect their digital infrastructure and assets from cyber threats.
3. Remote Work Opportunities
The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted the trend toward remote work, and the renewable energy sector is no exception. As companies adopt more flexible work arrangements, there will be increased opportunities for remote work in the renewable energy industry.
4. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
White males have traditionally dominated the renewable energy sector. Nonetheless, there is mounting recognition of the necessity for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity within the renewable energy sector. Renewable energy companies must prioritize diversity and inclusion initiatives in their hiring practices to attract and retain a diverse workforce.
5. Demand for Solar Installers
The demand for solar installers will grow significantly in the coming years. With the increasing adoption of solar energy, there will be a need for skilled workers who can install and maintain solar panels.
6. Offshore Wind Jobs
Offshore wind energy is becoming an increasingly important source of renewable energy. As a result, there will be a growing demand for skilled workers who can install, operate, and maintain offshore wind turbines.
7. Investment in Workforce Training
As the renewable energy industry makes progress, there will be a need for ongoing workforce training and development. Renewable energy companies must invest in workforce training to ensure their employees have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.
8. New Energy Jobs in Rural Areas
Renewable energy projects are increasingly being developed in rural areas, creating new job opportunities for local communities. Renewable energy companies must engage with local communities and provide training opportunities to help them take advantage of these new job opportunities.
9. Increased Demand for Engineers
The renewable energy industry will continue to require highly skilled engineers who can design and innovate new renewable energy technologies. As a result, there will be a continued demand for engineers with expertise in renewable energy systems, power electronics, and materials science.
10. Focus on Environmental Sustainability
Renewable energy companies are committed to reducing their environmental impact. As a result, the industry will be more focused on environmental sustainability. Renewable energy companies will need to hire professionals with expertise in environmental sustainability to help them meet their sustainability goals.
11. Collaboration with Educational Institutions
Renewable energy companies must collaborate with educational institutions to attract and train the upcoming generation of renewable energy professionals. Companies can partner with colleges, universities, and trade schools to offer internships, apprenticeships, and other training programs.
12. Increased Use of Artificial Intelligence
It is becoming increasingly important in the renewable energy industry. Artificial intelligence can be used to optimize energy production, predict maintenance needs, and improve energy efficiency. As a result, there will be an increased demand for AI and machine learning professionals.
13. Focus on Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a key component of renewable energy, and companies in the sector will continue prioritizing it in their operations. It will create new job opportunities for professionals with energy efficiency and building performance expertise.
14. Emphasis on Sustainable Supply Chains
Renewable energy companies increasingly recognize the importance of sustainable supply chains. They will need to work with suppliers and partners to ensure that their products and services are sourced sustainably, creating new opportunities for professionals with expertise in supply chain management and sustainability.
15. Use of Augmented and Virtual Reality
Augmented and virtual reality technologies are becoming increasingly important in the renewable energy industry. They can be used for training, maintenance, and remote collaboration, creating new job opportunities for professionals with expertise in these technologies.
16. Demand for Energy Policy Experts
Energy policy plays a crucial role in the renewable energy industry. Companies will need to hire professionals with expertise in energy policy to help them navigate complex regulatory environments and advocate for policies supporting renewable energy growth.
17. Increased Focus on Health and Safety
Health and safety will always remain a top priority for renewable energy companies. They will need to hire professionals with expertise in health and safety to ensure that their operations are conducted safely and responsibly.
18. Use of Blockchain Technology
It is becoming increasingly important in the renewable energy industry. It can be used to track renewable energy certificates, facilitate peer-to-peer energy trading, and improve supply chain transparency. As a result, there will be an increased demand for professionals with expertise in blockchain technology.
19. Need for Marketing and Communications Professionals
Companies must differentiate themselves through effective marketing and communications strategies as the renewable energy industry becomes more competitive. They will need to hire professionals with expertise in marketing and communications to help them build their brand and attract customers.
20. Growth in Energy Storage Manufacturing
As the demand for energy storage solutions grows, there will be a need for more manufacturing jobs in the renewable energy industry. Renewable energy companies will need to invest in manufacturing facilities and hire professionals with expertise in manufacturing to keep up with demand.
To Sum Up
As the renewable energy industry progresses, staying up-to-date with the latest hiring and workforce trends is important. By investing in the right talent and staying ahead of the curve, renewable energy companies can position themselves for long-term success and help build a sustainable future.
Whether you’re an employer or a job seeker, Whitham Group’s energy industry recruiters are here to help you navigate the changing landscape and find the best opportunities in the industry. Contact us today to learn more and start your renewable energy journey.