Why green energy will be part of the next resources boom

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Why green energy will be part of the next resources boom

One way or another it has been a big year for the resources industry in Australia. But amongst the legislative changes that will affect the industry, it appears there is some good news for those with skills valuable to the renewables sector.

We thought we’d have a look at the changes to the renewable energy sector and how you can be best placed to take advantage as the sector grows.

Renewable energy slated for big increase

Don’t get us wrong, we know coal and gas will continue to be big employers in Australia in the century ahead. When Treasury modelling suggests the renewable industry (with the exception of hydroelectric) will be 18 times larger by 2050 than it is now, that’s got to mean a lot of new jobs for new workers with new skills.

The Government hopes about 40 per cent of Australia’s energy will come from renewable sources in 40 years time.

Australian Renewable Energy Agency

That will involve research into, development of, and commercialisation of renewable energy at an early stage through the new $3.2 billion Australian Renewable Energy Agency and the research and development of clean technologies through the $200 million Clean Technology Innovation Program.

What on Earth does all that mean? Hopefully, jobs.

Where the green jobs are

There will be jobs in research and development, jobs in construction, jobs in maintenance and “white collar” and executive jobs within the companies that will grow to take advantage of these opportunities.

The regional director of All-Energy Australia (a major renewable energy exhibition and conference) Boyd Dale agreed the investment would create both jobs and skills.

“In future when we talk about Australia’s abundant riches we will not simply be focused on minerals such as iron, copper and gold, but will include renewable energy,” he said.

We’ve got some great information on Australia’s renewable energy industry in our Careers and Industry Guide for those seeking employment or skills in renewables.