EDF Power Solutions UK has teamed up with workplace skills provider Powering Futures to help address worker shortages in Scotland’s renewable energy sector and support the country’s transition to net zero, the companies said on Thursday.
As part of the partnership, EDF employees will volunteer in classrooms across Scotland, participating in the Powering Futures Challenge Programme. This initiative connects senior secondary school students with industry professionals to tackle real-world challenges posed by renewable energy businesses.
Launched in 2020, the Powering Futures programme equips students with workplace skills, confidence, and critical thinking, culminating in a SCQF Level 6 qualification, equivalent to a Scottish Higher. This academic year, more than 2,500 pupils from over 100 schools are involved, working on projects related to renewable energy development.
With industry experts forecasting that full-time roles in onshore wind must triple within two years to meet national targets, EDF highlighted the importance of collaborations between educators and the energy sector to ensure workforce growth aligns with demand.
“As a business we want to inspire the next generation to take up a career in the renewable energy industry in Scotland,” said Stephanie Bouchard-Saliba, chief people officer at EDF Power Solutions UK. “This partnership with Powering Futures will allow us to expand our reach within the communities near our sites, encouraging young people to think about the opportunities available. Whether it is project management, communications, engineering, legal or planning, there is a huge variety of roles available which play a critical role in enabling us to achieve net zero.”
Jennifer Tempany, co-founder of Powering Futures, added, “The Powering Futures Schools Programme is empowering tomorrow’s business leaders to solve today’s business challenges and work towards future economic prosperity. We are proud to be partnering with EDF Power Solutions UK – a company at the forefront of Scotland’s journey to net zero through investment in cutting-edge renewable technologies. This partnership will create real opportunities for young people across Scotland to shape a cleaner, brighter future.”
EDF Power Solutions UK operates apprenticeship and graduate schemes and runs the Destination Renewables programme elsewhere in the UK, further supporting workforce development in the sector.
