Renewables industry set to generate thousands of jobs says DTI

Renewable energy could develop into an industry which generates up to 35,000 jobs by 2020, according to a DTI report published in January 2004. The Renewables Supply Chain Gap Analysis assesses the current status of the renewable energy industry in the UK and offers an assessment of its future potential for employment.

In his foreword to the report, the Energy Minister Stephen Timms said: "The development of renewable energy is an important part of our efforts to tackle climate change. But it also offers a huge opportunity to enhance our manufacturing capacity and provide new employment, particularly in the remoter areas."

The report states that:

Mr. Timms added "We believe that the report will provide us all - industry and the public sector alike - with information about what steps must be taken for the UK to become a major player in renewable energy technology manufacture and supply. As the report makes clear, there are a number of challenges that need to be faced and obstacles that need to be overcome. But as it also makes clear, the potential rewards of doing so are immense."

The study was commissioned by the Renewables Advisory Board (RAB) and was led by a steering group comprising RAB, DTI's Renewables UK, the Scottish Executive, Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. The UK Regional Development Agencies, Renewables Champions and Trade Associations also participated.

The renewable energy technologies reviewed included: wind (onshore and offshore), wave, tidal, hydro, biomass, biofuels, waste to energy, landfill, solar thermal, photovoltaics, fuel cells, geothermal, hydrogen and energy storage. The study identifies the services, research, design and manufacturing capability associated with all these technologies.

More than 2300 companies currently active in the industry were asked to fill out a questionnaire which sought to identify their activities, skills, needs, plans and perceived barriers. A total of 559 questionnaires were returned, representing a response rate of 24 per cent.

The study considered the nature of the current market and the potential size and structure of future markets, identifying gaps in existing supply chains, opportunities for the UK and constraints.

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