Source: Pexels

The wind energy industry will need 569,000 technicians by 2026 as onshore and offshore wind rapidly grows in size, the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) reported.

According to the GWEC, onshore and offshore wind is expected to increase in size by 67% by 2026.

“There are enormous and transformative job creation opportunities brought by wind power to countries around the world,” Ben Backwell, GWEC CEO, said.

“This report reminds us that for the industry to grow sustainably, a rapidly expanding workforce must be given the opportunity to work safely, with training according to industry best practice, so they can do their jobs with competence and live healthy lives.”

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Nearly 30,000 new technicians are expected to join the workforce annually. Despite this, the GWEC flags the urgency of filling the projected gap in worker supply.

As of end-2021, almost 120,000 wind technicians have been recorded to hold a valid industry-standard GWO training certificate.

“Over the next five years, the industry has a clear need for increased availability of recognizable safety training globally and in nine selected markets in particular,” Jakob Lau Holst, CEO of GWO, said.

“For a smooth transition from fossil fuels to a sustainable future, it is imperative that safety training keeps apace with wind industry growth.”