UK - PM’s announcement backs BWEA findings

BWEA, UK’s leading renewable energy trade association, welcomed the Prime Minister’s endorsement today of the enormous potential of renewable energy to create employment in the UK. Studies published by BWEA in October 2008, concluded that wind, wave and tidal energy projects could drive job creation and stimulate sectors of the economy crucial to delivering the country’s 2020 renewable energy targets.

Maria McCaffery, BWEA Chief Executive, said: “The research we conducted in 2008 gave us a clear indication that wind, wave and tidal energy will become an economic powerhouse not only in terms of energy output, but in terms of employment and the beneficial effect on related sectors. We are delighted that the Prime Minister has now recognised this and are looking forward to concrete measures to bring this about.”

The report commissioned by BWEA from Bain and Co. in late 2008 reiterated that “the wind industry is now established as one of the highest-growth industries in Europe, growing at an average rate of 12 percent over the last 5 years.” The conclusions of the report also urged policy makers not to repeat the mistakes of the early phase of development, when the UK was not agile enough in securing sector jobs domestically.

The accompanying report delivered by SQW went even further in surveying the skills landscape, in terms of what skills will be in demand, and how potential skills shortages will be resolved.

“In these difficult economic times there is a sense that renewable energy is the way forward. Wind energy in the UK has yet to be developed to its full potential, so that the country as a whole can benefit. We welcome the Prime Minister’s announcement, which chimes with what the BWEA has been saying for years – it is now important for the Government to follow up words with actions,” concluded McCaffery.