The Global Wind Workforce Outlook 2023-2027, a joint report by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) and the Global Wind Organisation (GWO), reveals a pressing need for skilled wind energy technicians as the sector braces for rapid expansion. The report, the fourth in its series, highlights the dynamic growth of the wind industry and the corresponding workforce requirements to support this development.
Key Insights from the Report:
- Rapid Workforce Expansion:
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- By 2027, the wind energy sector will require over 574,000 technicians globally to construct, install, operate, and maintain wind assets.
- Offshore wind workforce is expected to grow by 79%, significantly outpacing the 12% growth in the onshore segment from 2022 to 2027.
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- Increasing Demand for Training:
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- More than 400,000 people in construction and installation (C&I) and operations and maintenance (O&M) segments will need industry-standard training over the next five years.
- Training requirements will expand from 4.9 million modules in 2023 to 5.5 million modules by 2027, encompassing essential safety and technical skills.
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- Offshore Wind Dominance:
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- The offshore wind sector is poised for substantial growth, driven by larger projects and higher turbine ratings.
- Offshore wind projects will necessitate a higher number of permanently on-site O&M technicians due to the increasing size and complexity of installations.
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- Regional Focus:
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- The report emphasizes the importance of ten key markets, including the United States, China, India, Brazil, and emerging markets like South Korea and Egypt. These countries are projected to account for 73% of all new wind capacity additions from 2023 to 2027.
- China alone will require over 249,000 technicians, driven by its ambitious wind energy targets and robust manufacturing capabilities.
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- Policy and Training Standards:
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- Standardized training and certification are crucial for ensuring technician mobility and safety across regions. GWO training standards are now recognized in over 50 countries, with more than 540 certified training centers globally.
- Government and industry collaboration will be essential to establish local education and training centers, aligning workforce development with national energy transition goals.
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Conclusion:
The Global Wind Workforce Outlook 2023-2027 underscores the critical role of a skilled and well-trained workforce in achieving global wind energy targets. As the wind industry continues to grow, particularly in the offshore sector, the need for comprehensive training programs and international cooperation will be paramount. This report serves as a call to action for stakeholders to invest in workforce development, ensuring that the wind energy sector can meet the challenges of the coming decade and contribute significantly to global renewable energy goals.
For more detailed insights and to access the full report, visit the GWEC and GWO websites.