SYDNEY, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) -- Workforce skills shortages could threaten Australia's renewable energy transition, according to a new report.
The report published on Thursday by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), said that the rapid expansion of Australia's renewable energy sector will significantly strain the labor market.
It found that the number of skilled electricity sector jobs in Australia is set to double by 2029, an increase of 33,000 in five years, as the transition to a clean energy future accelerates.
It warned that the rapidly growing demand for skilled electricians, mechanical trades and engineers could delay projects.
"The transition to a clean energy future presents a huge opportunity for Australia, both in terms of job creation and economic growth," Jay Rutovitz, Chief Investigator of the project from UTS, said in a media release.
"We need to act now to address the potential skills shortages to make sure we can deliver this transition and realize the benefits."
To address the challenges, the report calls for governments to implement policies for a smoother development of renewable energy projects over time and for the energy sector to attract a more diverse workforce, including more women and Indigenous Australians.
The study was facilitated by Reliable Affordable Clean Energy for 2030 Cooperative Research Centre (RACE for 2030), a 10-year collaborative project involving governments, industry and researchers aimed at driving innovation for a secure and affordable clean energy project.
Genevieve Simpson, Program Leader at RACE for 2030, said on Thursday that the report underscores the urgent need for collaboration to ensure Australia has the required skilled workforce.
The federal government has set a target of 82 percent of Australia's electricity coming from renewable sources by 2030. ■
