REA comments on Labour’s ‘Climate Apprenticeships’
Amy MacConacchie, Head of External Affairs at the REA commented:
“The REA wholeheartedly welcomes Labour’s announcement to dedicate an apprenticeship scheme to climate change specific jobs and, in particular, the focus on upskilling existing workers. At the very time we need to be strengthening the workforce, the UK renewables sector is suffering from a significant skills shortage that continues to be worsened by the removal of the previous Governments’ support schemes. If we are to achieve our Net Zero targets, this situation must be reversed immediately.
“We also welcome implementing an apprenticeship scheme that targets existing workers as well as the traditional school leavers ensuring that those working and living in fossil fuel dependent areas are fittingly upskilled and supported through the transition to a more sustainable energy system.
The REA hopes to see all parties commit to deliver a joined up approach to funding, policy and planning to deliver the wholesale systems change needed to decarbonise the economy – this includes a workforce strategy for renewable energy and clean technology.”
—ENDS—
For more information or to request an interview, please contact:
Amy MacConnachie
Head of External Affairs
07903510060
[email protected]
Notes to Editor
- The full announcement from Labour can be found here: https://labour.org.uk/press/labour-to-close-the-skills-gap-with-320000-new-climate-apprenticeships-in-its-first-term-in-government/
About the Renewable Energy Association (REA)
The REA is the UK’s largest trade association for renewable energy and clean technologies with around 550 members operating across heat, transport, and power. The REA is a not-for-profit organisation that represents renewable energy and clean technology companies operating in over fourteen sectors, ranging from biogas and renewable fuels to solar and electric vehicle charging. Membership ranges from major multinationals to sole traders.
For more information, visit: www.r-e-a.net