Offshore Energy Alliance and Regional Skills Partnership unite to propel North Wales as a hub for skilled local supply chain in the growing offshore wind industry
The Offshore Energy Alliance (OEA) recently appointed the North Wales Regional Skills Partnership (RSP) as Associate Members, also referred to as Topic Champions to support and lead on the topic of skills development in the North Wales region.
The North Wales coast is poised for a significant surge in offshore energy initiatives, with the Mona, Morgan, and Awel y Môr wind farms in the pipeline set to play a pivotal role in the UK’s renewable energy landscape. Recognising the transformative potential of these projects, the partnership between the RSP and OEA is strategically designed to ensure that the region not only meets but exceeds the skills requirements for this burgeoning sector. This collaborative effort aims to address the imminent demand for a skilled local supply chain and mitigate the potential skills gap associated with the upcoming expansion of offshore wind projects.
Sian Lloyd Roberts, Regional Skills Manager said: “We’re delighted that we have been appointed as the skills lead for North Wales. Our partnership with the Offshore Energy Alliance is a testament to our commitment to understand the skills requirements in North Wales and deliver a comprehensive Skills and Employment Plan as we demonstrate North Wales as a leader in the offshore energy sector.”
“Our recently published video; Empowering North Wales Employers, showcases the offshore and low carbon energy industry in North Wales and we look forward to working with the Offshore Energy Alliance by bringing together employers, skills providers and key local stakeholders to better understand and resolve skills mismatches at a local level and regional level.”
An initiative of the RSP is to inspire the younger generation to follow a career in the energy sector, but it also collaborates on targeted programs to develop, enhance and upskill the current local workforce, ensuring that individuals possess the specific expertise needed for various roles within the offshore energy supply chain.
The RSP proactively identify and address potential skills gaps by working closely with industry stakeholders to understand emerging trends and requirements, then work to implement measures to bridge gaps through targeted training and education programs.
Helen Thomas, Team Leader for Supply Chain Development at RWE and Chair of the Offshore Energy Alliance said, “The knowledge and resources that the RSP bring to the table mean that by working together, we can facilitate the development of a robust and sustainable local supply chain by connecting businesses, contractors and suppliers with the necessary skills and capabilities to contribute to offshore energy projects. We look forward to working with the RSP over the coming months to support the further expansion of low carbon and offshore energy and ensure that opportunities and benefits are open to businesses and communities across the region.”
Published: 28 November 2023
