EDF Renewables UK and Ireland has signed one of the first renewables industry recognition agreements with major UK trade unions.
The Prospect, Unite, GMB and UNISON trade unions have entered into a “forward-thinking” recognition agreement with the developer, which will cover the company’s 633 staff.
The new agreement is designed to “support a modern inclusive workplace culture with a progressive collective engagement model”.
It commits the company and the trade unions to work collaboratively to develop and grow the business, and to provide high-quality jobs and a positive employee experience.
Health, safety and well-being, and skills pipeline development will be priority areas for discussion.
The staff work across five offices, eight service centres and 44 renewable energy sites across England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
All four trade unions already have a long-standing relationship with EDF UK, one of the two shareholders of EDF Renewables UK and Ireland.
Matthieu Hue, CEO EDF Renewables UK and Ireland said: “We are proud to be one of the first renewable developers to sign an agreement like this with the four trade unions.
“Our ambition is to have a 10GW capacity by 2035 and that means over the next ten years there will be significant growth in our business.
“I firmly believe that working with the four trade unions will allow us to have an extra level of support which will help us get to where we want to be.
“I look forward to working closely with them all.”
Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary of Prospect, said, “This recognition agreement represents an important partnership between EDF Renewables UK and Ireland and its trade unions as we attempt to maximise the opportunities from the move to net zero.”
Andy Prendergast, GMB National Secretary, said: “As the renewables sector grows, all parties will work to make sure good job opportunities are created, giving people from all backgrounds the chance of a decent future in the industry.
“This is an important step that will help drive higher standards in the industry.”
Donna Rowe-Merriman, National Secretary and UNISON Head of Energy said: “This agreement marks a pivotal moment in the energy industry’s shift to cleaner, renewable sources, proving collaboration is essential and effective.”
Simon Coop, national officer for energy and utilities at Unite said: “Unite recognises the importance of this landmark agreement with EDF Renewables.
“Unite will now meaningfully engage with EDF Renewables and be a key stakeholders in supporting the business, its employees and our members.”
Minister for Industry Sarah Jones added: “This agreement shows the value of industry and trade unions working closely together for the benefit of people’s jobs, the wider economy and the climate.
“This government has set a different and more constructive path as we look to grow the economy and I welcome this kind of partnership.”