In a significant step towards a sustainable future, a pilot scheme aimed at supporting oil and gas workers in transitioning to careers in renewables and clean energy has been launched today.
This initiative, known as the Energy Skills Passport, is backed by £3.7 million in Just Transition funding from the Scottish Government, spanning the years 2022 to 2024.
Led by Renewable UK and Offshore Energies UK, and supported by the UK Government, the pilot scheme aims to guide workers in identifying career pathways within the offshore wind sector. By providing a clear understanding of the additional qualifications needed, this initiative ensures that transitioning workers are well-equipped for their new roles.
This initiative aligns with the Scottish Government's broader commitment to achieving a just transition to net zero. By facilitating a fair and managed transition, the Energy Skills Passport will play a crucial role in supporting the workforce as they shift towards sustainable energy careers. Once fully operational, the passport is expected to help establish a steady stream of workers necessary for delivering clean power by 2030.
Gillian Martin, Acting Cabinet Secretary, commented:
“It is absolutely vital that we recognise and retain the considerable skills of oil and gas workers and ensure they are supported, as part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to ensuring a fair and just transition for Scotland.
“That’s why the Scottish Government has provided £3.7 million of funding to support oil and gas and renewables industries to jointly develop the Energy Skills Passport – helping to ensure that the skills, experience and expertise of oil and gas workers are harnessed and that they are ready to apply for the long term sustainable jobs that are created as part of our fair and managed transition to net zero.
“The Scottish Government’s support on the passport will help ensure the economic transformation is managed fairly for workers in existing industries and the communities that underpin them. I welcome the pilot phase of the passport, which has been three years in the making and I look forward to seeing further developments in the coming months.”
The launch of the Energy Skills Passport marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards a greener future, offering hope and opportunities for workers in the oil and gas industry to contribute to the global efforts in combating climate change.
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