Sustainable Jobs in Sustainable Energy : closing the gap

The surge in demand for renewable energy has seen the sector expand in recent years. Evidence of this in the North East is the recent establishment of an R&D centre (New and Renewable Energy Centre NaREC). However, the North East, even with its strong engineering background, has not had a successful rate of growth due particularly to skill deficiencies (CURDS 2002; GO 2004). This project investigated higher-level skill needs in the sector and gives recommendations on integrating the findings into the University curricula. In particular it recommends change in the area of mechanical and electrical engineering, which covers a wide range of renewable energy employment needs through its HND, degree and Masters programmes.