COP27: “No net zero without skilled workforce” says ECA

COP27: “No net zero without skilled workforce” says ECA

Leading electrotechnical trade association ECA says it is time for a rethink on how to get net zero done. It urges delegates at the COP27 climate summit in Sharm El-Sheikh to support adequate investment in the people and skills to make the targets a practical reality.

The body says that the UK’s carbon reduction targets are simply not attainable without also focusing now on training and upskilling our existing electrotechnical and engineering services workforce. These people are essential to designing and installing new technologies and infrastructure. Installation by a properly qualified professional is the only way the public can have confidence their electric vehicles (EVs) are safe to charge, and their solar panels and heat pumps will work efficiently.

ECA Director of Workforce and Public Affairs Andrew Eldred said:

“The electrotechnical industry is keeping a very close eye on proceedings at COP27. Talking about targets is all well and good, but there is not enough being said about the actual people - the electricians, engineers and contractors - who will ultimately design and install Net Zero technologies.

“Right now, we need a robust framework of training and qualifications to deliver safe, functional low carbon installations. Our electricians and electrical contractors are a key national resource and must be front and centre in the 'Levelling Up' agenda.

“Government needs to focus on incentivising the investment in high quality training by contractors, and make sure our workers, and our electrical grid itself, can respond to the added demand Net Zero will entail.”

The case for low carbon skills has never been stronger. EV sales are rising worldwide, with 10% of cars sold in the world last year having an electrical plug. The costs of solar panels has dropped this decade. Some European countries have accelerated their shift to renewables to provide energy security in response to spiking gas prices caused by the war in Ukraine.

Green energy now accounts for more than 40% of total UK generation. We are also one of the few countries in the world where our emissions targets are in line with the 2015 Paris agreement.

Throughout COP27, ECAtoday is sharing stories of low carbon innovation and transformation from Members, Associates and Content Partners. Stay tuned to leadingthecharge.eca.co.uk for all the latest articles, videos and podcasts, and download ECA’s Green Pivot document for guidance on low carbon and net zero work for electrotechnical contractors.