Bute launches net zero skills strategy
Welsh onshore wind developer Bute Energy has launched a net zero skills strategy to tackle the green skills gap.
The firm made the move after it was predicted that Wales needed 25,000 green jobs by 2050. As part of the strategy, it aims to build a talent pipeline to fill roles in the renewable energy sector, including engineers, project managers, and planners.
It developed five fundamentals of the net zero skills strategy, which includes promoting STEM skills and opportunities, building an inclusive workforce, delivering social value standards to benefit local communities, developing partnerships across the renewables sector, and strengthening the Welsh supply chain.
Key initiatives include school engagement, upskilling and training with more than 7,000 pupils engaged to-date, delivered six paid internships and partnering with educational institutions like Careers Wales and Wales’ colleges and universities.
It said collaboration was at the heart of its plans, with the firm leading the Welsh campaign for Green Careers Week 2024 this week, and has developed an Social Value Standard for the nation’s local communities.
In addition, it will accelerate efforts to equip people in Wales with the skills they need for the green jobs of the future. Through partnerships with organisations like the FAW, Bee 1, Wales Netball, and Literature Wales, Bute Energy aims to build bridges between sectors to allow easier access for women and girls to opportunities in the green economy.
By committing 2% of contract value to local training, upskilling, and community projects, Bute Energy also wants to ensure that the benefits of renewable energy development extend beyond just clean power.
The company’s projects are expected to bring £3 billion in investment and create up to 2,000 jobs to Wales directly and indirectly from its projects.
Biba Chuta, Social Mobility Partner at Bute Energy, said:
“Wales is facing a monumental challenge in creating a workforce that can meet the demand for green jobs.
“Our Net Zero Skills Strategy is designed to address these gaps head-on, from the classroom to the boardroom, with the aim of building a diverse, inclusive workforce ready to deliver the infrastructure needed for a sustainable future.”
“We know the road ahead will need a cross-sector collaborative effort which won’t be easy, but Bute Energy is committed to ensuring Wales’ net zero goals become a reality.
“By investing in skills, education, and community, we can be part of the solution to this enormous challenge and ensure the benefits of green energy are felt by all.”
Image courtesy of Bute