Ireland Faces Green Skills Shortages, Needs 43% Rise in Energy Qualifications by 2024
Ireland faces a critical shortage of green skills, with a global need for a 43% increase in energy-related qualifications by 2024. New jobs are emerging, and existing roles are «greening.» Microcredentials and specific certifications are vital for upskilling the workforce to meet ambitious energy transition targets.
The energy transition is creating new jobs like wind turbine technicians and carbon analysts, but the European Union, including Ireland, faces significant skill shortages. Worldwide, energy-related qualifications need to increase by 43% between 2023 and 2024 to meet demand. Microcredentials offer accessible pathways for workers to gain specific skills, which can be stacked into larger qualifications.
Penny Keogh of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) highlights the need for skilled workers in retrofitting homes, installing energy systems, and meeting the target of 400,000 heat pumps by 2030. David Corscadden, from the Irish Universities Association, notes that sustainability is reshaping roles across all sectors, not just traditionally «green» industries. New job titles like sustainability managers are emerging, but green knowledge is also integrating into existing roles.
Solas, Ireland's FET authority, published the Green Skills 2030 strategy in 2024, revealing a «greening» of existing occupations. Technical gaps vary widely, from data analytics in agriculture to ESG reporting in business and e-vehicle repair in transport. Beyond technical skills, «soft» skills like leadership and adaptability are crucial for navigating this transition.
For heat pump installers, QQI level six domestic heat pump certification and a manufacturer’s certificate are required. BER assessors for domestic buildings need a level six certificate or relevant experience, while those for non-domestic buildings require a level seven degree and SEAI-approved training. MicroCreds.ie offers university-accredited microcredentials, including courses in ESG investing and environmental impact assessment.