Wednesday 2 February 2011

Renewables skills shortage is stalling energy efficiency

Renewables skills shortage is stalling energy efficiency

A major skills shortage in the renewables industry is holding back businesses from becoming more energy efficient.

That's the claim this week of the Centre for Alternative Technology, which offers climate change solutions to consumers and businesses from its base in Wales.

CAT spokesman Alex Randall said: "The biggest issue for green businesses is the lack of people with [the] right skills. This is probably the biggest factor stopping the UK moving rapidly towards a low carbon society.

"We simply haven't got enough people with the skills to install the renewable energy systems and everything else that needs to happen. This skills gap must become a priority for the government."

He added that to ensure a low carbon future, funding must be provided for training and education in green technologies.

A recent report from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs showed that certain materials and resources, including timber, are under threat. It states that raising awareness to encourage businesses to conserve resources and find alternatives is "pivotal".

Written by

Bruna Pinhoni

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