UK energy workers are unconvinced the sector is adequately prepared for the transition to clean power sources, according to research from skills organisation City & Guilds and Engineering UK.
A workforce survey raised concerns over a “a worrying lack of leadership and support” for the training and reskilling that will be needed to ensure 2035 decarbonisation targets are met.
Only 42% of respondents reckoned government is providing enough support to workers, while a similar level thought businesses in the sector are prepared to meet the 2035 target.
The survey was carried out from a sample of 1,000 energy professionals, half from high-carbon industries and half from the low-carbon sector.
Of those working in industries like oil and gas, 60% thought the move to decarbonise the power system will put their jobs at risk within the next two years alone (by 2025).
However, 91% were willing to consider a role in clean energy now or in the future, according to the research.
Just one-third of the total respondents believed they have the skills needed to adapt to any future changes in the energy industry, while 26% said they didn’t know how to access training that will allow them to adapt their existing skillsets.
Andy Moss, chief customer officer at City & Guilds, said: “It’s great to know that over 90% of the high carbon energy workforce are interested in transitioning to greener jobs.
“To meet the skills needs of the sector, it’s vital we create opportunities for people to do just that. Yet, many employers have told us that uncertainty over the timing and scope of major energy projects inhibits their ability to invest in skills for the long-term.
“We must unite to tackle this, with industry and government working in partnership to equip the energy workforce with the green skills required for the future. If we don’t act now, we’ll almost certainly lose the race to a more sustainable future.”
Dr Hilary Leevers, chief executive of EngineeringUK, added: “The sector must work together with government to grow a diverse workforce able to achieve joint aims and ensure its prosperity into the future.
“The numbers in vocational training and studying at university are insufficient to meet demand.
“So, in addition to reskilling and retraining those already in work, it’s imperative there’s a sustained and growing investment in training and education, including apprenticeships, T levels and academic routes.
“It’s vital to invest in bringing a more diverse range of new entrants into engineering and technology, giving more young people from a wider range of backgrounds the chance to pursue a rewarding career and bring their different perspectives to the fore.
“Only by improving workforce diversity and enjoying the breadth of talent available can the sector fill its skills and labour gaps and maximise its innovation.”