The UK hydrogen industry is rapidly developing and it is well placed to help the country create a thriving low carbon energy sector, which will help achieve the ambitious plans of 10GW of low carbon hydrogen production capacity by 2030.

Hydrogen is the most abundant element on the planet. It also has characteristics that are beneficial to build a clean, cost effective, resilient and safe energy system. Overall, it is a very attractive fuel option.

Although hydrogen is widely used in some industries, a huge opportunity for future growth presents itself in the adoption of the practice across additional sectors. This will allow it to make a more significant contribution to the energy transition.

The number of countries with policies that directly support investment in hydrogen technology appears to be on the rise. Indeed, this gives real hope for development in the sector.

The UK were the first major economy to legislate for net zero. The nation could be well placed to take a leadership position in the hydrogen industry too.

Furthermore, the UK is home to some of the most ambitious and exciting hydrogen projects in the world. This report details a selection of these. Plus, an explanation of the rainbow of hydrogen colours, and insight into the steps being taken to ensure there is a clear understanding of the training and skills required for the energy workforce of the future.

Ensuring the right skills are available will be crucial to achieving the UK’s hydrogen goals. The scaling up of hydrogen production will also provide positive developments in the future of hydrogen energy jobs.

Use the form above to download the report The UK Hydrogen Industry: Current Position, Jobs, Training and Upskilling and find out more about the sector.

Communication is key in creating a successful team, but it isn’t always easy when businesses are operating with a global workforce. A report conducted by ClearCompany reported that businesses with effective and clear communication are 50% more likely to have lower employee turnover.

The rise of globalisation has had significant impact on the way international businesses communicate. Companies are now more likely to have experienced employees who come from a range of cultures.

In this article, we are exploring the importance of communication for a global workforce, and acknowledging methods that can ease the process.

Ensuring a Productive Global Workforce

The main benefit from efficient communication in a workplace is the impact it has on productivity levels. Clear communication is essential for understanding the task at hand. Therefore, employees are willing and able to work together and complete their objectives without confusion.

Naturally, investing in communication and the workforce will produce many organisational benefits.

Ensure Regular and Open Conversations

For company culture and staff morale, it is important that everyone feels as if they have a voice. Open communication refers to sharing information in an honest, consistent, and transparent manner. The American Society of Training and Development (ASTD) found accountability meetings, that are used as a space to talk about anything, increase the likelihood of individuals fulfilling their goals by 95%.

Bring People Together

When workforces are located around the globe, it is easy for individuals to feel left out. It is important to prevent this as location shouldn’t matter. Many online streaming platforms, like Microsoft Teams and Zoom, allow for easy communication in global organisations. Some benefits of face-to-face communication includes: building trust, enhancing the power of human face, and increasing perception of feelings. All of these aspects assist in building relationships within the workplace.

Navigating Time Zones

For global workforces, communication in various time zones can cause some issues. However, establishing an understanding of different working styles can help avoid these problems. For example, when organising meetings, it is important to consider a happy medium that works for everyone. Naturally, one party might have to start work earlier, or finish later, so if this occurs, acknowledge this and show appreciation.

Small gestures such as an email signature stating “Our work hours might not align, so don’t feel the need to respond straight away” can build a positive workforce and remove the unnecessary pressure.

Show an Interest

One huge benefit of working in a global business is that there will be people who come from a variety of different cultures. Show an interest. Alongside this, organisations can create internal culture where learning and sharing is encouraged.

When there are various office locations within the business, there is opportunity to recognise a range of national days and public holidays. It has been reported that different cultures can bring new ways of thinking and can prevent an organisation from being narrow-minded.

At Visuna, we can help ensure moving abroad to work is a seamless process. We take care of payroll, tax, travel, and human resources for your international staff through our global mobility services. We can offer relocation support to the successful candidate, so contact us today.

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Companies within the oilfield industry who are agile, collaborative, and employee-orientated gain the most from digital transformation in oilfield services. In today’s landscape, it is important for organisations to embrace the digital transformation to gain the highest value.

Deloitte US reports that the value from embracing digital transformation is realised by; increasing production, being safer and faster, lowering costs, and creating a better experience for all stakeholders.

In this article, we have summarised some of the key ways that oilfield companies can benefit from adoption of digital processes.

Edge Computing

Edge computing helps businesses to optimise their daily operations by rapidly processing large volumes of data. It has been reported that a single oil rig can generate over a terabyte of data each day. As oil and gas companies can work in remote conditions, edge computing allows data to be processed easily. This can even occur when the internet connection is disrupted.

Many benefits can come from this; from reduced downtime as well as contributing to high profitability. By 2024, it has been reported that the global edge computing market will grow to $250.6 million.

Cloud Deployment

Cloud computing is the newest addition to the digital revolution within the oil and gas industry. By definition, cloud deployment is the process of setting up a virtual environment.

One area where cloud technology has been implemented is the process of being able to maintain and monitor production units, wells and oilfields. A main benefit from this is being able to reduce any unexpected failures down the line. Above all, increasing production levels.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a technology that allows computers to think in a ‘human’ way. AI enables companies to overcome a handful of challenges within the industry.

Exploration and Production: companies can collect and analyse large quantities of data, which can help increase their production levels

Maintenance: AI systems can identify upcoming and current failures, the lifespan, and highlight the efficiency of equipment.

Drilling: able to optimise drilling of wells which can help reduce the overall cost of labour

Safety: companies can check for potential safety and environmental hazards, which can be crucial for the industry

Business Intelligence

Business Intelligence (BI) refers to the methods of collecting, storing and analysing data from business operations to optimise their performance. BI provides a real-time view of business data. Implementing BI within a business structure can provide better quality analysis.

As the oil and gas industry is a competitive sector, BI can provide the sector with a competitive advantage. For example, BI enables “intelligent enterprises”, which means businesses can utilise the knowledge provided to better predict future economic and market changes.

Tech Recruitment Consultant at Visuna, Ryan Kilbey, explains “The energy transition is dictating a huge change in the daily operations of the industry as everyone is striving for decarbonisation. Oil & Gas companies are prioritising attracting and retaining the top tech talent that will get them through the digital transformation, whilst remaining competitive in the market”.

At Visuna, we’re here for you in the energy transition and can support you in sourcing the workforce needed for digital transformation in oilfield services. Get in touch to find out more about our tech recruitment services.

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At the start of February, Louise Tate from our UK office relocated to Australia and started working in our Brisbane office.

Once she was settled, we caught up with her to see how she is adapting to her new life down under, as well as working in her now role as a Recruitment Consultant.

How was the move?

The travelling part seemed like it lasted forever, however, it was worth the 32 hours. It was hard to say goodbye to my friends and family, but I soon realised that the time zone doesn’t make a difference.

Why did you choose to move to Australia?

From a young age, I have always wanted to spend part of my life in Australia. When we received the email about the opportunity, I knew I had to take the chance. I have been extremely lucky to relocate to Australia and continue to do the job I love.

What have you enjoyed the most since moving to Australia?

I have enjoyed meeting new people, trying new local foods, and going on adventures at the weekend. There is so much I still want to see and do such as the Australian Zoo, a Koala sanctuary, theme parks, beaches, and a boat party.

What surprised you the most about Australia?

Everyone is so polite, happy and friendly. Whenever you walk down the street, everyone is smiling. I was also surprised at how big the country is.

Is there much difference in the way of working?

Within the business, the processes and day-to-day tasks are almost the same. However, within Australia, there is a better work life balance.

Have the company been supportive in the relocation?

The company could not have been more supportive! They have made every step of the journey stress free. My colleagues in both the UK office and Australian office have been amazing.

How are you finding your promotion to Recruitment Consultant?

I have loved every second of it so far. Each day I am learning something new, and it is great speaking to new clients and consultants. The team in the Australian office have been a great support and are always more than happy to help me.

Could you see yourself living in Australia for a long time?

Although it feels surreal at the moment, I could definitely see myself living here for a long time.

Have you found any cons with the relocation?

I think the only thing would be trying to get used to the heat! It is a bit of an adjustment.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to move?

If you are ever given the opportunity to do it, then take the leap and don’t look back! Although it was tough and an adjustment at first, I have no regrets at all.

Our people are at the heart of what we do and our values. Learn more about working at Visuna, and follow our Instagram to gain an insight to life at Visuna.

Wind energy is created through a wind turbine; a device that channels the power of the wind to generate electricity. Australia have committed to the use of this renewable form of power within their energy mix in order to meet their carbon cutting goals. Wind energy has allowed Australia’s renewable industry to hit a recent milestone. In 2022, they constructed over 5000 MW of wind energy projects. Alongside this, investment commitments to Australian Wind Energy Projects grew by 50%.

Here are 8 of the upcoming Australian wind energy projects due for completion in 2023 and 2024.

Dulacca Wind Farm, Queensland

Dulacca Wind Farm is currently under construction and will complete in late 2023. Octopus Investment, who are financing the project, have acknowledged and worked with a Barunggam representative to respect the culture heritage of the area.

The project will be able to effectively co-exist within the current use of the land; only occupying less than 2% of the total land area. Predicted energy production capacity will be 180 MW.

Clarke Creek Wind Farm, Queensland

Stage one of the wind farm is now under construction. Once operational, in Q4 of 2024, Clark Creek’s grid-scale generation capability will displace 2.7 million tonnes of carbon each year.

Clarke Creek will become one of the largest wind farms in the southern hemisphere. Predicted energy production capacity will be 800 MW.

Flat Rocks Wind Farm, Western Australia

Flat Rocks is a 130 MW onshore wind farm project, and is currently in the permitting stage. The project is set to be commissioned in 2023, and predicted energy capacity will be130 MW. At the farm, there will be 18 of the tallest wind turbines in Western Australia.

Golden Plains Wind Farm, Rokewood

Golden Plains is going to be Australia’s largest wind farm to date, once commissioning commences in Q4 of 2024. The wind farm is set to power more than 750,000 homes, with a predicted energy production capacity of 1330 MW.

Goyder South Wind Farm, Burra

The Goyder South wind power project is a 412 MW onshore wind farm that is anticipated to be complete in 2024. Stage 1 is the first stage of Neoen’s flagship project; the ‘Goyder Renewables Zone’. Within this project, there will be wind and solar farms, as well as storage.

MacIntyre Wind Farm, Queenland

Once operational in 2024, MacIntyre Wind Farm will be ACCIONA’s biggest renewable energy facility. Predicted energy production capacity will be 1026 MW.

The MacIntyre wind complex will help the state meet its decarbonisation commitments, and climate change mitigation strategies.

Rye Park Wind Farm, New South Wales

Rye Park Wind Farm is an onshore wind project under construction. Once fully commissioned in 2024, it will be the biggest wind farm in New South Wales. The predicted energy production capacity is set at 396 MW.

At Visuna, we’re here to support your wind energy recruitment in Australia. Our Brisbane office is available to help with your workforce requirements at this exciting time in the energy transition.

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Generating around 10% of the UK’s electricity, wind power is constantly growing and becoming a key source of renewable energy. Recently, funding of around £24 million has been announced to go towards green energy technology. Therefore, there is no denying the upcoming potential increase in wind turbine jobs – with prediction to increase 68.2% by 2030.

Trends in UK Wind Energy

Evidently, wind energy is becoming the most popular, and cheapest, source of renewable energy. Since 2015, there has been a ban on building new onshore windfarms, but current government are in discussion about changing this legislation. Greenpeace policy director, Dr Doug Parr, explains that “onshore wind could be designed as the perfect solution to the climate and energy crisis”.

Research conducted by Statista found that, as of 2021, onshore wind has amounted for roughly 2.5 million metric ton of oil equivalent. This has been increasing year on year, and the growth is set to continue.

Around 85% of wind turbine components are recyclable, but they are usually sent straight to landfills. Vestas, a sustainable energy solutions partner, has proposed a scheme to reclaim and reuse the materials. This opens a new era for the wind industry, and encourages the needed change for successful growth in employment.

Education for Wind Turbine Jobs

It is important that the next generation are educated on the exciting opportunities that are going to be available. Currently, there is a gap in knowledge as graduates are having to seek additional qualifications as present studies don’t meet the needs of modern economics.

Minister for Investment, Gerry Grimstone, expressed that “UK workers will be building the next generation of wind turbines that will help us meet our climate change commitments”. Therefore, working towards closing the educational gap is an important objective for our future. In order to get our economy back on track, the wind industry is going to be key in creating jobs.

Wind Turbine Technician

Due to the niche nature of being a wind turbine technician, there can be a lot of queries surrounding the responsibilities and requirements. Generally, their purpose is to ensure that the turbine is functionally properly, as well as conducting regular maintenance.

Some of the essential skills needed include; good engineering and mechanical skills, deep knowledge and understanding of a wind turbine, good hand-eye coordination – a more in-depth look can be found here on our website.

There is a lot of scope for employment to develop within the wind energy sector. At Visuna, we offer people solutions, wherever you need them. Talk to us today about your renewable energy recruitment needs.

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Low emissions and green energy are becoming innovative and exciting topics, as well as essential objectives for the current climate. Green energy job opportunities in this sector shouldn’t be missed as they are essential to meet social needs. For instance, The International Labor Organisation (ILO) has estimated that 24 million jobs could by created in the green economy by 2030.

Green Energy Jobs are Growing

As the majority of the world aims to become net-zero, the demand for green energy jobs continues. Recently, The Guardian reported that as sectors transition to low-carbon models within their daily work, each job holds potential to become ‘green’.

Now, you might be thinking, what is ‘green energy’? According to the Cambridge dictionary, it is “energy that can be produced in a way that protect and preserves the natural environment”. Highlighting how important it is for employment in the sector to expand and develop.

National Grid explain that whilst most green energy sources are renewable, not all renewable energy is considered to be entirely green. People argue that the building of dams for hydropower falls in this category as it is not ‘green’.

Adoption of Clean Energy in America

Since Joe Biden’s landmark climate bill became law, companies have announced more than 100,000 clean energy jobs in the US. His Inflation Reduction Act aims to cut climate emission by 40% by 2030, provide billions of dollars in incentives. In order to develop their green infrastructure and roles, the aim is for this to be reinvested into the economy.

At the end of 2022, American Clean Power Association (ACP) reported that the clean energy sources in the country had the capability to power the equivalent of 2 million homes. Likewise, battery storage had a record-breaking year with 4 GW warranted in 2022.

Seeking to Close Australia’s Clean Energy Skills Gap

Australian businesses operating in the clean energy sector are being called to complete the online Australian Energy Employment Report (AEER). As a result, this will identify which parts of the industry are in most need of funding for developing skills.

In order to grow this sector, the research identified essential skills to meet emission reduction targets. The only barrier is the lack of data to accurately forecast how the jobs are changing. Therefore, there is huge potential for more jobs within the country to help meet net zero by 2050.

UK Progress Towards Green Energy

In Britain, there is a huge focus on shifting energy generation to renewable sources. Express has recorded that, compared to EU, the UK’s energy supply is greener, harmful emissions are fewer, and targets are bolder.

In particular, wind energy is popular within the UK due to our weather conditions. Statista found that as of 2021, there was around 10,000 wind power plants in the UK. In fact, there has been steady growth year on year, and the market is becoming more saturated over time.

Visuna’s specialists can offer support with renewable energy recruitment, wherever in the world your project is located. Contact us to find your new opportunity.

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As it’s the windiest country in Europe, it’s not surprising that the UK offshore wind industry has flourished. Furthermore, the UK is the global leader in the sector. Countries around the world are noticing what the UK has achieved and are hoping to follow suit.

According to statistics from RenewableUK, there’s currently over 2,600 offshore wind turbines in the UK, across 43 operational projects.

One of the key drivers of development is the Offshore Wind Sector Deal announced in 2019. This agreement between the UK Government and the offshore wind industry sets out targets and commitments to encourage innovation, drive down costs, improve productivity and more. As a result, the plan is expected to see offshore wind contributing to up to 30GW of generating capacity by 2030.

Wind energy is already one of the largest sources of renewable power in the UK and will be instrumental in meeting carbon reduction targets and creating a reliable, clean, affordable electricity system. There’s over 11,000 miles of coastline in the UK and currently only a small proportion is being utilised for offshore wind. Consequently, the potential for growth in the sector is huge.

The World’s Largest Windfarm

The UK is also home to the world’s largest wind farm. Located off the Yorkshire coast, Hornsea 2 consists of 165 wind turbines. The operation has a total capacity of 1.3GW, which can power over 1.4 million UK homes. Furthermore, the project has created thousands of jobs.

It won’t hold the title for long though! Once complete in 2023, the Dogger Bank Wind Farm will be able to power over 6 million British homes. This project is located off the UK’s North East coast and consists of three phases which total 3.6GW capacity.

Jobs in Offshore Wind

The UK offshore wind industry supports thousands of jobs across the country. This includes roles in manufacturing, project development, construction, operations and more. A huge variety of professions service the different components of an operational wind farm, such as, Wind Turbine Technicians, Wind Energy Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Crane Operators, Energy Analysts, Project Managers and Operations Supervisors.

You can more about offshore wind jobs in our recent article.

The future for UK Offshore Wind Jobs

Over 10,000 people in the UK are directly employed in offshore wind. Expected growth in the sector means an increase in employment opportunities too. Jobs in offshore wind are set to more than double by 2030 in the UK.

Since the wind industry has the potential to generate thousands of highly skilled and well paid jobs, a priority for individual companies, and the sector as a whole, is planning for the future workforce. This includes training newcomers, upskilling individuals, increasing diversity and improving the gender mix. The industry has a target of 40% women employed in the sector by 2030.

Our renewable energy team are here to support your business with offshore wind recruitment worldwide. Contact us today to find out how we can find the top talent needed for your next project.

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The first offshore wind farm was built in 1991 near Vindeby, off the coast of Denmark. Today, we see them across the world, and offshore wind jobs are set to increase significantly over the next few years.

According to IRENA’s 2022 Annual Review of Renewable Energy and Jobs, global employment in onshore and offshore wind grew to 1.4 million jobs in 2021. This was up from 1.25 million in 2020. The report also reveals that the leader in offshore installations and technology development is Europe. However, other countries, most notably China, are rapidly developing their own capabilities and undertaking improvements in port infrastructure.

Offshore wind can deliver huge amounts of clean, renewable energy. Therefore, it has the potential to help many nations deliver on their carbon cutting promises.

Offshore Wind Jobs

A range of job roles are needed to service the many different components that make up an operational offshore wind farm. This includes the wind turbines themselves, offshore electricity substation, construction/cable laying vessel, vessels for crew transfer, maintenance and monitoring, operational headquarters, onshore electricity substation, port and dockside facilities, plus jack up barge. The job count increases further when you consider the other life cycle stages of a wind farm; scoping, development, installation and decommissioning/repowering.

Wind farms create construction and installation jobs around the world. Offshore wind farms require more labour than the onshore variety. This is due to increased complexity in the foundations, substations, undersea cables and installation vessels that are not needed onshore.

Here we take a look at some of the key jobs available in offshore wind.

Wind Turbine Technician

A Wind Turbine Technician will inspect and test the electrical components and systems that make up the turbines. Their role will involve climbing wind turbines, fault finding on electrical and mechanical equipment, providing accurate and detailed reports and carrying out risk assessments. It’s important that they adhere to all health and safety requirements and ensure timely completion of all maintenance schedules.

Operations Supervisor

An Operations Supervisor will manage and oversee the smooth running of the wind farm. This involves ensuring all relevant health and safety processes are being followed, plus the efficiency of the operation and the requirements of engineering support.

Offshore Wind Energy Engineer

The role of an Offshore Wind Energy Engineer is to ensure the wind turbines, and associated cables, generators, substations and motors, are running as efficiently as possible. They will be involved in a huge range of tasks, including design and development of components, onsite testing and maintenance of various elements.

Wind Energy Analyst

The Wind Energy Analyst will collect and analyse data from the offshore wind farm to ascertain performance and make projections. The role involves using scientific knowledge and computer programs to evaluate current activity and measure production to aid future planning.

Offshore Wind Project Manager

The Project Manager for an offshore wind operation will ensure the overall timely completion of projects. They will oversee developments, create timelines, manage budgets and build teams. Consequently, their role involves a high level of planning and communication to execute the necessary actions.

Crane Operator

Crane Operators take on the essential role of moving the bulky and heavy equipment and components associated with offshore wind farms. These individuals operate and inspect the machinery, cranes and hydraulic systems that lift wind turbine towers, rotors, generators and more.

Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers are responsible for electrical systems and equipment that support the wind turbines. This includes the design and testing of systems, in addition to ensuring correct installations and maintaining compliant processes.

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers are involved in the designing, building and testing of mechanical devices, such as, wind turbine rotors and components. In addition, they are responsible for implementing solutions to improve operations, supervising processes and conducting troubleshooting measures.

Further Information on Offshore Wind Jobs

There’s so many different routes into a career within the offshore wind sector. The handy career mapping tool from RenewableUK can help identify your ideal career path within offshore wind.

Contact our renewable energy recruitment specialists today for help with talent acquisition and mapping for your business across offshore wind energy projects and more.

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