ECA says the King’s speech had little to offer the electrotechnical and engineering services sector, despite it being a driving force in the transition to Net Zero carbon.
The association welcomed the prospect of accelerated investment in renewables and grid connections. However, it sees additional oil and gas licensing as an unnecessary distraction from Net Zero 2050 – which remains a legally binding target.
Andrew Eldred, ECA Director of Workforce and Public Affairs, said:
“The King’s speech gave mixed signals about our ambitions for Net Zero. While we praise reforms to grid connections for renewables projects, we cannot overstate the need for greater emphasis on practical training and better-resourced further education.
“Our sector is the key to delivering Net Zero installations and infrastructure, but the government is at risk of undermining it by failing to properly tackle the dual challenges of a skills shortage and providing well-paid jobs for the future.
“Urgent progress is needed to keep up with the pace of change necessary for the safe and efficient switch to an electrified future, including advances in innovation, multi-disciplinary working, recruiting the future workforce and upskilling.
“We cannot do this without clearer support from the top.”
Last updated 09 November 23