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Renewable & Alternative Energy

The renewable energy industry is not a new one, having been present in some form for more than 100 years. Some of the technologies of the industry are relatively mature, such as geothermal power and heat, hydroelectricity and biomass which emerged at the end of the 19th century. Others such as solar heating, wind power, and photovolatics are relatively recent and are currently being tested in the market, while a third subset is still at the research and development stage.

The renewable energy industry is big business across the globe and growing rapidly due to a consistent effort to stimulate it with government targets, new policies, and support funding and investment. The UK has 3.5% share of the global market in low carbon and environmental products and services, making it the sixth largest with a value of around £80 billion. About half of this value stems from supply chain and extended value activities.

Because of the speed at which the industry has taken off in the last few years, the combination of new technology development and its subsequent use has created skills shortages. In addition, many of the existing skilled operatives involved in energy efficiency and generation, are approaching retirement. This combination plus the government’s carbon reduction targets that are driving growth means that the renewable industry is one of the most opportunity-laden markets in the UK and abroad.

The extent to which skills will be needed varies by technology and which part of the supply chain it involves, although it is known that there is potential for significant growth and skills demands in offshore and marine carbon capture and storage in the long term. However, like many industries the renewable one will always have a demand for experienced engineers and technicians led by creative and ambitious managers and leaders, and the more adaptable they can be as the industry develops the better.

Akton identified early on that the global renewable industry was likely to take off quickly and have the greatest demand for talented and competent individuals. Our experience in this industry covers renewable energy development, engineering, onshore and offshore wind, solar, hydro, tidal, and wave energy, smart metering, carbon management and energy efficiency, and corporate social responsibility.

We are constantly scanning the industry for individuals that can bring their talent and expertise to bear in skilled, technical, managerial and executive positions within the corporate environment, ensuring that the business and technical needs of its clients and candidates are always met.