Tim Norford, Head of Renewable energy recruitment at Astute, shares 5 benefits of Renewables and looks at the promising job opportunities they offer in the renewable sector.
Renewable energy sources, such as anaerobic digestion, solar power, battery energy storage systems (BESS), onshore and offshore wind power, offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fossil fuels.
With advancements in technology and growing awareness of climate change, renewable energy has emerged as a cornerstone of the global transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.
5 benefits of Renewables
1. Anaerobic Digestion
Anaerobic digestion harnesses the natural process of organic decomposition to produce biogas, a renewable energy source rich in methane.
The process not only generates clean energy but also helps manage organic waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
According to the World Biogas Association, anaerobic digestion has the potential to provide up to 20% of global electricity demand by 2050.
2. Solar power
Solar power utilises photovoltaic (PV) cells to convert sunlight into electricity, offering a clean and abundant source of renewable energy.
Solar energy is inexhaustible and widely available, making it a viable option for both residential and commercial applications.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), solar photovoltaic capacity is expected to triple by 2030, driven by falling costs and supportive policies.
3. Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) play a critical role in integrating renewable energy into the grid by storing excess energy generated during periods of high production and releasing it during times of high demand.
BESS help stabilise the grid, improve reliability, and optimise the use of renewable energy resources.
According to Wood Mackenzie, global installed battery storage capacity is projected to reach 741 gigawatt-hours (GWh) by 2030, driven by declining costs and increasing deployment.
4. Onshore wind power
Onshore wind power harnesses the kinetic energy of wind to generate electricity, offering a reliable and cost-effective source of renewable energy.
Onshore wind farms have minimal environmental impact and can be deployed quickly to meet energy demands.
According to the Global Wind Energy Council, onshore wind capacity is expected to increase by over 60% by 2030, driven by technological advancements and supportive policies.
5. Offshore wind power
Offshore wind power taps into the vast wind resources available at sea, offering immense potential for clean energy generation.
Offshore wind farms benefit from stronger and more consistent winds, resulting in higher energy yields compared to onshore counterparts.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), offshore wind capacity is expected to grow by 15 times by 2050, becoming a key pillar of the global energy transition.
Renewable energy jobs
The sector offers a wide range of renewable energy jobs across various disciplines, including engineering, construction, operations, maintenance, research, and project management.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the renewable energy industry employed more than 11.5 million people worldwide in 2019, with continued job growth expected in the coming years.
Roles in the Renewable sector span the entire value chain, from designing and installing renewable energy systems to operating and maintaining renewable energy infrastructure.
Professionals with skills in Renewable energy technologies, such as solar photovoltaics, wind turbine technology, energy storage, and battery management systems, are in high demand.
Renewable energy sources offer numerous advantages, including environmental sustainability, energy security, and economic benefits.
Anaerobic digestion, solar power, battery energy storage systems (BESS), onshore, and offshore wind power represent key pillars of the renewable energy transition, driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
As the world strives to address climate change and transition towards a carbon-neutral future, investing in technology and supporting renewable energy jobs will be crucial in building a cleaner, more resilient energy system for generations to come.
To view all of Astute’s current Renewable energy jobs click here.
About the author
Tim Norford is Astute’s Head of Renewables, and leads the team in recruiting permanent and contract Renewable energy jobs across the UK.
If you enjoyed his blog on the 5 benefits of renewables, connect with Tim on Linkedin.
