newy.com.au – A renewable energy careers guide has been released for Hunter and Central Coast workers, as EnergyCo says close to 500 people are already working in construction and specialist trades in the region’s renewable energy zone.
Modelling cited by EnergyCo points to more than 9,000 jobs at peak construction activity and more than 4,450 long term operations and maintenance roles across NSW renewable energy projects.
The Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Jobs Guide outlines the skills, qualifications and career pathways needed to plan, build, operate and maintain renewable energy infrastructure. It also covers work in manufacturing, transport, environmental services, community engagement and logistics across government and private businesses.
The guide is aimed at students, jobseekers and people changing careers, as well as employers, educators and career advisers. First Nations people and women considering careers in traditionally male dominated industries are also among its intended users.
A case study accompanying the launch describes the pathway taken by Zenviron renewables engineer Jessica Haugh, who began a renewable energy engineering degree at the University of Newcastle in 2019.
A guest lecture by Zenviron in her second year led to a 12 week placement, followed by a casual role and then full time employment in 2023. Haugh now designs electrical systems for large scale wind farms and battery storage projects and supports construction teams.
Haugh said: “A lot of people might wonder if they can do it too, but the industry is very welcoming and supportive.”
The Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone is intended to support one gigawatt of clean energy generation through upgrades to existing electricity distribution poles and wires. Ausgrid will deliver, operate and maintain the network project, which includes two new substations and upgrades to 85 kilometres of power lines.
The Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Jobs Guide is available through EnergyCo’s jobs guide page.
