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Why work in renewable energies?

Matthew Bowles our consultant managing the role
Published on 31 March 2023

It's safe to say the energy sector is an exciting one to be part of at the moment, with staggering levels of new and innovative technologies hitting the market and shaking up the way organisations are doing business. One of the most significant growth areas over the past decade has been that of renewable energy, which has grown from what a grass-roots movement into a booming global industry. And if you thought that growth was plateauing anytime soon, you might want to think. According to McKinsey, global renewable electricity capacity is expected to increase by over 80% from 2020 to 2026.

Renewable energy offers a multitude of benefits from the consumer and environmental standpoint, including the production of sustainable energy sources that won’t deplete and promoting a ‘clean, green’ ideology. Additionally, regions undertaking major renewable energy projects receive economic benefits. But what does this mean for individuals and organisations involved in the industry? Let’s find out!

two people wearing hard hats and high visibility vests looking at a laptop and pointing at wine turbines in the distance

The industry continues to grow – which means more jobs

Why are green energy jobs are on the rise? The renewables industry has consistently experienced steady growth over the past several years, even in the wake of a global pandemic, growing energy crisis and the decision for the UK to leave Europe. Fatih Birol, the agency’s executive director of the International Energy Agency (IEA) proclaimed “renewables appear to be immune to covid” and the industry continues to support the global effort to combat climate change and reduce our reliance of finite resources.

In addition, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) notes that climate concerns and post-COVID recovery has only spurred national interest into localising supply chains and creating more jobs at home.

In fact, the report showed that more and more countries are creating new roles in renewable energy. Nearly two thirds of the jobs are located in Asia, followed by the EU, Brazil and China.

Some of the renewable energy technologies that have noted the most impressive expansion in recent years include wind, hydro and solar power.

In the EU, hydro power and wind power have been driving the race to green energy targets, accounting for two thirds of the total electricity generated in 2021. Wind power in particular is one of its most important industries, accounting for around 40% of the world’s wind manufacturing output. The region is already a global leader in the manufacturing of wind turbine components, as well as foundations and cables, but jobs in this arena are continuing to grow.

In the UK alone, renewable energy jobs are growing four times faster than the overall UK employment market. Particularly, Scotland – who dominate the UK onshore and offshore wind market – saw their green jobs almost double last year. In Wales, where huge progress is being made in solar and tidal power, jobs have grown 150% with great demand in construction and manufacturing services. 


You can make a real impact

If you’re looking for an industry that offers diverse work experiences and potential for rapid career growth, then look no further than renewables. Many of those who work within renewables do so on a contract basis, due to the project-based nature of the work. This allows renewables workers the chance to not only experience different sites and locations, but rapidly upskill and potentially advance their career more quickly. And with more innovative solutions hitting the renewable energy market each year, it's an exciting time to be a part of the industry.

In the renewables industry, you’ll have the chance to work alongside the best and brightest minds in the field, use cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions to tackle complex projects which can be very beneficial for your own professional development. As the sector continues to evolve, there's a real need for skilled and qualified workers, giving you an advantage when securing lucrative contracts.

But the benefits don’t stop there. The renewables industry gives you the chance to contribute to the production of new, clean energy sources that are ultimately helping to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. What's not to like?

Let Quanta help you find your next renewable energy job

Are you searching for a career in the thriving renewable energy industry? Look no further than Quanta. We’ve been providing an innovative recruitment service since 1992. Not long after, we established our renewable energy team and since then we’ve expanded to service more than 25 countries across 6 continents.

We’re passionate about linking brilliant people with brilliant organisations, and we’re committed to helping you advance your career in renewables. Don’t wait any longer to kickstart your renewable energy career. Head to our renewable energy hu to learn more about how Quanta can help you take your next career step, or contact us here to start a conversation.