The solar sector is booming, and we cannot let the shortage of skilled workers hold us back from driving the energy transition. In the latest EU Solar Jobs Report of SolarPower Europe, the modelling shows that the EU REPowerEU objectives need at least 1.1 million solar workers by 2030. To address this challenge, SolarPower Europe has developed the SolarWorks Platform, a one-stop-shop for future solar workers and recruiters, matching applicants to relevant roles or training programmes.

Registrations are now open and free for solar companies, job seekers, education and training providers. Solar companies in Europe and beyond are welcome to create their company profile and upload their latest open vacancies.

First annual SolarWorks Fair – 1 million European solar jobs by 2026

The platform launched officially during the first edition of the annual SolarWorksFair. This virtual event instantly connected job seekers and companies. The Fair also provided an opportunity for companies from the entire solar value chain to showcase their brand and attract new recruits. During the informative sessions, job seekers had the opportunity to learn about in-demand skills, and how the sector is dedicated to becoming more diverse and inclusive.

Commenting on the SolarWorks Platform launch, Walburga Hemetsberger, CEO at SolarPower Europe affirmed; “There are set to be millions of solar career opportunities in Europe: as many as 1 million European jobs by 2026 – that’s 50% more than we have right now. With the SolarWorks Platform, we are taking crucial step in building a skilled solar workforce for Europe, and ensuring a skills gap doesn’t hold back the energy transition.”

In a pre-recorded message for the SolarWorksFair, EU Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, Nicolas Schmit, stated; “We need massive and urgent investment in people’s skills, as well as skills mapping and job matching. So, I very much welcome the SolarWorks Platform… launching today. This is exactly the kind of practical initiative which will bring tangible results in the sector, both for companies and for job seekers. Young people looking to start their career can use the platform to hone their skills, and find good job opportunities.”

Pact for Skills

More widely, SolarPower Europe is also working to develop the Onshore Renewable Energy Large-Scale Partnership with other stakeholders under the European Commission’s EU Solar Pact for Skills. Proposed as part of REPowerEU plans to disentangle the continent from fossil gas dependency, the partnership develops a clear understanding of the concrete upskilling and reskilling measures needed, and fosters cooperation between industry, social partners, training providers and regional authorities in unlocking EU funding.

SolarPower Europe will also be working throughout 2023, ‘The European Year of Skills,’ to support the sector in reaching the necessary solar workforce, and to help build the solar workforce of tomorrow. (hcn)