Present and future careers in solar discussed at careers event
Workers and students from across Scotland have shared their optimism for renewables as the nation’s focus turns to energy security.
Students, tradespeople and industry experts gathered at Fife College’s Dunfermline campus last Thursday to share experiences on the potential of the sun to power homes as well as careers.
The event, organised by Fife Climate Hub, Fife College and Local Storytelling Exchange, came as the price of oil and gas began to rocket due to conflict in the Middle East.
Electrical engineering student Jenna Roscoe aims to build a career in renewable energy trades. "I think trades have been looked down on for a while – but the fact you can work your way up with practical skills and end up with a good lifestyle, it’s very inspiring.
"The reason I want to go into renewables is because it's the future."
Students on the College’s electrical engineering, construction and electrics courses heard from panellists already working in the solar industry.
Tierra Henderson, 45, is also studying electrical engineering. She moved from childcare to working in gas and is now studying to be an electrician – a route that could see her fitting solar panels as the industry grows around the country.
"I would like to think by the time my kids have grown that all the things that we're talking about now will be a big impact then.
"At the minute it just seems like we're in a place where things are getting damaged, things are falling apart and we're looking to try and save things and make things better. I'm hoping that my kids will actually be able to see the result of that.
"If you know the work you're doing is making a difference, it's something to be proud of."
Anand Sajeevan, who works as a renewable energy advice officer for Community Energy Scotland, spoke about the growth in funding and demand for solar power for community buildings, such as village halls.
He said: "Communities are putting in solar for numerous reasons – to reduce their energy bills, but also to get a source of income for their other projects. It’s a win-win. I can imagine a time in the future where community buildings everywhere will have renewables."
Another panellist Josh King, owner and director of Musselburgh sustainable solutions company Gensource, said that there was a need to focus on renewable energy to combat increasing risks to energy security.
King, who has just been announced as an ambassador for this year's All Energy conference in Glasgow, said:
"Scotland is rich in renewable energy. We have the natural resources, the skills base and the supply chain to be a true renewable energy powerhouse.
"Recent global events have made it starkly clear that reliance on fossil fuels is not a stable or secure long-term option. Renewable energy is domestic, resilient and increasingly the choice people want to see backed."
In the past week* the UK got 60% of its power from renewable energy, made up of wind energy, solar power and hydro-electric, according to the National Grid Live website. Over the past year, 42% of our power came from those sources.
Frazer Walker, Fife College’s Head of School for Engineering, Construction & Technical Skills, said: "The session was about opening students’ eyes to what’s available in solar and the range of roles out there. It helps them to see the industry in completely different ways.
"Being able to hear experiences from the industry in this way makes me positive for our students. It’s all about ideas for the future."
Jennifer Miller, Community Development Lead at Fife Climate Hub, said: "The transition to renewable energy isn’t just about technology, it’s about people. When local careers in renewable energy are visible, they become more attainable. That's just one of the many steps we need to take if we expect the next generation to take an active role in shaping a sustainable future."