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As we kick off 2025, the renewable energy sector is seeing significant momentum and challenges across key markets, including France, Germany, the UK, Ireland, the USA, and Poland. From accelerating renewable deployment to addressing workforce shortages, here are the top energy transition trends shaping the industry this month.
Accelerated Deployment of Renewable Energy
The European Union is making strides in integrating more renewable energy into its grid, with wind and solar power leading the way. However, a major bottleneck remains: permitting delays. Over 500 gigawatts of potential wind energy capacity are currently stuck in the queue, with some projects facing delays of up to nine years. This is particularly evident in France, Germany, Ireland, Poland, and the UK.
To meet the EU’s ambitious target of sourcing 42.5% of its energy from renewables by 2030, policymakers are under pressure to streamline permitting processes and upgrade grid infrastructure. These delays are already impacting recruitment across project development, permitting, and engineering roles.
Persistent Global Coal Consumption
Despite a global push for cleaner energy, coal consumption remains at record highs. The International Energy Agency estimates 2024 coal usage at 8.7 billion tonnes, reflecting a 10% increase over the past decade.
While coal’s share of global electricity generation has fallen from 41% in 2014 to 35% in 2024, it remains a dominant energy source, particularly in China, India, Poland, and Germany. The UN has called for a near-total phase-out of coal by 2040, but many nations still lack clear phase-out plans. France aims to shut down its last coal plants by 2027, with Germany targeting 2030. However, the transition remains costly and complex, posing challenges for policymakers and investors alike.
The Skills Gap in Renewable Energy
The global shift to clean energy is expected to create millions of jobs, but a skills gap threatens the transition. The UK, for example, is aiming to decarbonize its electricity grid by 2030 but lacks sufficient skilled workers to meet its ambitious wind energy targets.
By 2026, only 30% of the workforce needed for global wind energy projects will be trained. This shortage extends to roles in energy storage, grid infrastructure, and project development. Companies and governments are now focusing on upskilling workers from traditional energy sectors, launching new training programs, and developing initiatives such as the energy skills passport. However, rigid apprenticeship structures and underfunded training institutions remain barriers to progress.
Major Investments in Grid Infrastructure
Upgrading and expanding grid infrastructure is a top priority as renewable energy adoption accelerates. In the UK, Scottish Power announced plans to invest £24 billion into its grid network as part of the UK Government’s 2030 Clean Power Initiative.
This investment aims to transition from gas to electricity while ensuring the grid can handle the growing influx of renewable energy sources. Thousands of new jobs will be created in transmission planning, interconnection management, and smart grid technology—presenting fresh opportunities for professionals in the energy transition space.
What This Means for Energy Professionals
As these trends unfold, demand for mid-to-senior-level talent in renewable energy continues to grow. Companies are actively recruiting specialists in project development, finance, investment, engineering, and regulatory affairs to navigate the evolving landscape.
If you’re considering your next career move in the renewable energy space, now is the time to align your expertise with the industry's most pressing needs.
Looking for new opportunities? Get in touch with our team to explore the latest roles in clean energy and energy transition.