Green Skills Shortage Threatens Energy Transition

The International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights a growing skills gap in the global energy sector, driven by the rapid growth of clean energy jobs. According to the IEA’s latest report, global energy sector employment reached 67 million in 2023, an increase of 3.5 million from pre-pandemic levels.

Clean energy jobs now make up over half of all energy sector employment, surpassing fossil fuel roles in 2021. Key sectors like solar PV, wind, electric vehicles (EVs), batteries, heat pumps, and critical minerals mining account for most of this growth.

However, the IEA’s survey of 160 energy firms reveals that a shortage of skilled workers is slowing progress. Vocational roles, such as energy-specialized electricians and STEM professionals, are particularly in demand.

“The rapid expansion of clean energy is creating millions of jobs, but we’re not training workers fast enough,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol. “Governments, industries, and educational institutions must urgently address this skills gap to meet energy and climate goals.”

Universities Lag in Renewable Energy Education

A study by the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs reveals that 68% of global energy degrees are still focused on fossil fuels, with only 32% aligned with renewable energy. At the current pace, renewable energy degrees won’t fully replace fossil fuel-focused programs until 2107.

Universities face challenges transitioning from fossil fuel education due to entrenched financial ties and infrastructure. While private universities have shown more enthusiasm for renewable energy programs, public institutions lag due to greater reliance on fossil fuel funding.

Developing regions such as Central and South America, Africa, and the Middle East are especially underserved, with limited clean energy education options despite high demand for green skills.

Urgent Action Needed

Investment in renewable energy education remains critically underfunded compared to fossil fuel programs. International organizations and governments have focused on deploying clean energy technologies but neglected education, leaving renewable energy training off the global agenda.

The IEA projects 30 million new clean energy jobs will be needed to limit global warming to 1.5°C, with two green jobs created for every fossil fuel job lost. Expanding renewable energy education is essential to meet this demand and support the global energy transition.

Recommendations for Change

1. Redirect Fossil Fuel Funding: Public and private funding should prioritize renewable energy education over fossil fuels.
2. Accelerate Green Degree Programs: Governments and universities must fast-track accreditation for solar, wind, and hydro energy degrees.
3. Support Developing Countries: Increased financial assistance is needed to build renewable energy faculties in underserved regions.
4. Raise Awareness: The global clean energy community must prioritize education as a key component of the energy transition.

Without immediate action, the skills gap could undermine efforts to achieve climate targets, jeopardizing the implementation of the Paris Agreement. Scaling investment in renewable energy education is not just necessary—it’s urgent.