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View profileFinding the best Renewable Energy talent
If you’re building or growing a team in renewable energy, knowing which skill sets are in demand can help you hire with confidence. From offshore wind and solar to green hydrogen and energy storage, the sector is evolving quickly, and so is the need for people who can keep pace. Here are some frequently asked questions about the most in-demand skills across the UK’s renewable energy industry today.
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ADLIB’s Engineering and Sustainability recruitment teams are immersed in the world of clean energy and climate innovation. We’ve supported pioneering start-ups, scale-ups, infrastructure providers, and purpose-led businesses working across wind, solar, hydrogen, and grid technology. Whether you’re hiring for technical depth, regulatory expertise, or commercial impact, we know how to find the right people to help you move forward.
Overview
The UK renewable energy sector is expanding rapidly, underpinned by the government’s net-zero by 2050 commitment, energy security objectives, and significant investment in clean technology. As of 2025, offshore wind, solar PV, green hydrogen, energy storage, and emerging technologies are driving job creation and reshaping the energy workforce. This document outlines the most in-demand skills employers are seeking across the major sub-sectors of renewable energy in the UK.
What skills are in demand in wind energy?
Wind power, especially offshore is a major part of the UK’s energy mix. Skilled technicians and engineers are needed to keep turbines running safely and efficiently.
Key skills:
- Wind turbine installation, operation, and maintenance
- Blade repair and gear system servicing
- Rope access and working-at-height certification
- Subsea engineering for cable laying and maintenance
- Marine coordination for offshore logistics
- SCADA systems for performance monitoring
What skills are in demand for solar energy?
Solar is growing steadily across utility-scale and rooftop installations. Skilled professionals are needed for design, installation, and integration.
Key skills:
- PV system design (panel layout, orientation, yield estimation)
- Installation for domestic and commercial systems
- Electrical testing and compliance (18th Edition Wiring Regulations – BS 7671)
- Integration with battery storage systems
- Thermal management, fire safety, and panel maintenance
What skills are in demand for energy storage and grid integration?
As renewables grow, balancing supply and demand becomes critical. Energy storage and smart grid skills are key.
Key skills:
- Engineering and maintenance of battery systems (Li-ion, sodium-ion, flow batteries)
- Smart grid and decentralised energy system knowledge
- Power electronics (inverters, converters, load balancing)
- Energy systems modelling and forecasting
- Frequency response and dynamic balancing
What skills are in demand for green hydrogen and bioenergy?
These technologies are helping decarbonise industry, transport, and heating. Safety and process expertise are essential.
Key skills:
- Electrolyser operation and maintenance
- Hydrogen safety and hazard management
- Biochemical engineering for biomass and anaerobic digestion
- PLC/SCADA programming for automation
- Emissions monitoring and lifecycle analysis
What commercial and regulatory skills are needed in renewable energy?
As policy evolves, there’s growing demand for professionals who understand regulation, stakeholder engagement, and project development.
Key skills:
- UK energy market knowledge (CfD, Capacity Market)
- Planning law and consenting processes
- Public consultation and community energy engagement
- Environmental impact assessments and biodiversity net gain
- Financial modelling and procurement for energy projects
What certifications and training are important in the renewable energy sector?
Certifications help professionals meet industry standards and stay competitive.
Key certifications:
- GWO (Global Wind Organisation) – offshore wind safety
- NEBOSH and IOSH – health and safety management
- 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) – electrical compliance
- CompEx – working in explosive environments (hydrogen sector)
- City & Guilds – solar PV, battery storage, EV charging
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