Meeting the demands of Australia’s Renewable Energy Sector

Did you know that Clean Energy Australia’s 2024 Report found that renewables accounted for nearly 40% of Australia’s total electricity supply in 2023? Each year, the Clean Energy Council, the peak body for the clean energy industry, provides a detailed report on the state of renewable energy in Australia. 

Like many other countries that advocate for and generate renewable energy, Australia is committed to becoming a clean energy superpower. This means decarbonising our economy by reducing our reliance on fossil fuels through electrification and producing more green commodities. 

This also involves preparing our grid. Australia has three separate power grid systems. Although the electricity grid is largely secure and reliable, significant challenges remain in integrating new supply and storage technologies.

Perhaps the most critical challenge is ensuring we have a skilled workforce capable of adapting to and meeting the needs of the exciting and expanding the renewable energy sector.

The case for renewables 

Is it a case of too little too late? No, I don’t believe so, but we do need to act with urgency. 

We recognise the value in transitioning to renewable energy — momentum will build, and changes will occur across the board over time. Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydro reduce greenhouse gas emissions and do not deplete natural resources. Investing in renewable energy can also create jobs in various sectors, including manufacturing and maintenance. 

This is where it gets truly interesting. 

Significant investment in the renewable energy sector positively impacts the economy over time. Additionally, the cost of renewable energy will decrease over time, making it a more affordable option.

Ultimately, it comes down to the people factor. We need workers with up-to-date skills and knowledge to operate, maintain, and innovate, allowing the renewable energy sector to scale and improve.

Importance of stakeholder involvement

With many stakeholders in a growing and dynamic sector, it’s vital to understand the development, adoption, regulation and trends to see how you fit into the overall scheme.

National, regional and local governments are laying the foundation for appropriate policies, regulations and incentives, including government grants and schemes. Several environmental agencies play an important role in overseeing compliance with various environment standards. These include:

• the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA)
• the Climate Change Authority
• the Clean Energy Regulator

Energy producers develop, finance and operate various renewable energy projects, while independent power producers also contribute. Let’s not forget the providers who may be developing or manufacturing renewable energy technologies such as solar panels, energy storage systems, wind turbines and more. This brings us to the labour involved — the skilled workforce needed to construct, operate and maintain these renewable energy systems.

Communication challenges

Addressing these challenges head-on requires clear, jargon-free communication in multi-stakeholder environments. These are complex subjects to begin with and it is crucial that your messaging is tailored to the unique goals and concerns of the different stakeholders. 

Solutions need to be explained and contextualised, and benefits should be outlined plainly and clearly. With the rise of social media and a 24/7 news cycle, combating misinformation will also be essential.

There is a strong case for building a skilled workforce that meets the needs of our growing renewable energy sector. With ongoing technological advancements and increasingly sophisticated solutions available, it is important to have a workforce capable of rising to the occasion – in terms of developing, building, installing and maintaining systems, and in continually evolving them.

Resolute Training offers industry-leading training for the real world. We offer courses to support those who are keen to work in the renewable energy sector including courses in PV systems, battery storage, power systems, and a Certificate IV in Electrical (Renewable Energy). Employers who are getting started in renewable energy can visit our Getting started in renewable energy for more information.